The first ever RAFA Rides at RAF Brize Norton is even more special for cyclist Gordon Hickman, who is taking part in the event in memory of his late father.
Gordon, an Associate Director at communication technology provider Verizon, grew up near the base when his father Chris, who passed away earlier this year, was stationed there during his time in the RAF.
“I’ve done RAFA Rides a couple times now, but I was particularly keen to take part in the event this year because of my family connections with RAF Brize Norton. My father was a Squadron Leader based at Brize Norton and my mother’s father was a Group Captain, so it means a lot for me to take part”, said Gordon.
Chris joined the RAF in 1964 and began his career in Aden and Bahrain flying the Argosy until 1971. He then converted onto the VC10 and was posted to RAF Brize Norton, where he stayed for over a decade between 1972-1981 before being posted for a final time to RAF Finningley in Yorkshire.
Gordon’s father Chris
Gordon in training
With his father away for weeks at a time, and Gordon at boarding school, father and son didn’t get to spend much time together when Gordon was growing up. However, Gordon has fond memories of the times they did spend together and of course is very proud of his father’s service
Gordon is taking part in the 50-mile route at RAF Brize Norton, alongside colleagues from Verizon.
Argosy aircraft flown by Gordon’s father Chris
With rides taking place at RAF Marham on 2 June and RAF Brize Norton on 8 June, alongside the flagship event at Kendrew Barracks on 15 June, RAFA Rides 2024 is set to be bigger than ever.
Cyclists can also take part from wherever they are in the world by signing up for RAFA Rides Your Way or the global Zwift event.
Find out more about RAFA Rides 2024 and sign up here.
