Woodley boy to cycle 230 miles to Paralympic Games

Dexter Rosier, 12, will be setting off from his hometown today (August 25) to cycle to Paris for the opening of the Games which takes place on Wednesday.

The mammoth challenge will see him covering 65 miles on the first day, 85 miles on the second day, and 74 miles on the third day.

He will be joined by his mum, Sam Rosier, as they make the journey in just three days.

The 230-mile ride is a fundraising adventure to support Sport in Mind, Fanconi Hope, and Wheelpower.

To prepare for the challenge, Dexter started training earlier this year with assistance from Places Leisure's Bulmershe Leisure Centre.

They provided him with a free strength and cycling programme and access to the gym.

Group workout instructor, Dave Covey, and his partner, Emma, who both work at Places Leisure, will also join the ride.

Dexter said: "This challenge is really important to me for a number of reasons.

"I know it will be tough, but I’m ready and can’t wait to take it on.

"I have worked really hard to train for this with the help of Dave and others at Places Leisure and I hope I can display the resilience and dedication that can help inspire others to chase their dreams.

"The charities are also very close to my heart and I want to raise as much money as possible to support them and the amazing work they do.

"Sport in Mind in particular have been a big help to me, getting me active when my own mental health had declined.

"Fanconi Hope do great work to support children with Fanconi Anaemia – a life-limiting disorder – and they supported the son of my form tutor, so I wanted to help.

"My third charity, Wheelpower, helps disabled children get into sport and I can’t think of a more fitting cause to cycle to the Paralympics for and show that sport is for everyone."

Dexter will make his way to Paris for the opening of the Paralympic Games (Image: Supplied)

Mr Covey described helping Dexter with his training as an 'amazing journey'.

He said: "To use sport and exercise to do something so amazing and to support three remarkable causes, fully embodies everything that Places Leisure is here for and we couldn’t be prouder of Dexter.

"He is an inspiration and I hope others see what he is doing and are driven to take on their own challenges and smash their own goals.

"It’s been a privilege for Dexter and his family to allow me into their lives and secondly to help this wonderful young human being to achieve one of his amazing goals, because this will be achieved."

People can also support Dexter's charities by pledging to walk, run, cycle, or choose their own activity to collectively move 10km alongside Dexter as he makes his way to Paris.

Dexter said: “I’m so grateful for everyone’s support so far and anything you can give to support my three charities would be hugely appreciated.”

To learn more, donate, and follow Dexter on his route, visit the Total Active Hub website.