Royal British Legion RBLR1000 Mile Ride
| June 19, 2010 | to | June 20, 2010 |
Good Luck team, remember not to ride faster than your guardian angels can fly.
During the first 6 months of 2009 a call went out to all RBLR members and other interested motorcyclists to help to raise money for the Poppy Appeal. This was to be achieved by attempting to break the world record for a simultaneous SaddleSore motorcycle ride (1000+ miles in 24 hours). Previously this had been set at 156 during the 2006 “Ride for the Heart and so a target of 200 bikes was laid down. After a slow start the idea gathered momentum and by the end of May the 200 target had been reached. Each entrant was asked to raise a minimum of £50 sponsorship, potentially 
a whopping £10,000 for the Poppy Appeal. Unfortunately news of our record-breaking endeavor spread across the Atlantic and we were gazumped on the 15/16 May 2009 when 409 riders completed the Redwing 19 SaddleSore 1000. However, bearing in mind that the main aim of the RBLR 1000 (as it became known) was to raise money for the Poppy Appeal and to raise awareness of the Iron Butt Association, it was decided that the event should still go ahead. On 19 June 2009 the riders assembled at Squires Cafe, Sherburn-in-Elmet, for a briefing before setting off at 0800 on 20 June 2009 for their 1000+ mile endurance ride. Riders were free to choose from 4 routes: A northern route up the A1 to Berwick-upon-Tweed, Edinburgh, Wick, Fort William and back along the M6/M62, just over 1000 miles, either clockwise or anticlockwise; or a southern route one to Dover, then to Southampton and Redruth and then back, also just over 1000 miles, and also clockwise or anti-clockwise. Minus the no-
shows, and the riders who had to withdraw due to personal or work commitments, 187 motorcycles crossed the start line on the morning of the 20 June 2009.
The 1000+ mile SaddleSore is a common method of entry into the Iron Butt Association (IBA) which does not have membership in the traditional sense. The IBA is a little more loose knit organization than most clubs. The IBA is dedicated to safe, long-distance, endurance motorcycle riding and although based in the United States, they have over 24,000+ members world-wide, including an ever-growing UK arm. The IBA bill themselves as “World’s Toughest Riders” and it wasn’t long before it transpired exactly how tough this particular ride was going to be for some people. The riders set off on their 1000 mile journey At 1030 the first retirement due to mechanical failure occurred, this was to blight many a ride that day, we had 7 DNF (Did Not 
Finish) due to mechanical failure of one sort or another. Although you only have to maintain an average speed of just over 41 mph to conduct his ride, it is surprising how quickly time can run away from you and by the following day we had 12 riders who simply ran out of time. The dreaded “Nerg Nail” of Ogri fame also raised his ugly head and caused 2 retirements through punctures.
A little over the top with sat nav, but heck! if it gets you there.
The SaddleSore 1000 has an excellent safety record and I am happy to say that this was maintained. There was one very minor collision which caused no injuries but which forced a retirement due to broken and misaligned lights.However, the DNF that really broke my heart was one young lady who, having ridden 1000+ miles within the allotted time, nipped home (only 20 miles) with her husband to pick up some paperwork they had forgotten. Somehow, before or during that short 20 mile trip, she lost a clear plastic case containing her receipts and fuel log. No log and no receipts mean a DNF. It’s not just body-tough, it’s mind and emotionally tough too when that crap happens. When all was said and done we had 23 DNF: Overtime – 12 Ill – 01 Mech failure – 06 Puncture – 02 Prang – 01 Lost paperwork – 01 The details of 164 finishers have been forwarded to the IBA for scrutiny. One or two may fall by the wayside, but I am confident we have beaten the record of 156 that we set out to beat. This may not be a World Record, but it is a UK, European and Rest of the World Record! It is worth noting that we also gave away a few prizes to: Furthest Travelled (Female) – Anna Simmons – 275 miles to Squires Furthest Travelled (Male) – Martin Reed – 358 miles to Squires Oldest Motorcycle – Ray Marrin – 1981 Honda GL1100 Youngest Rider – Deborah Rowley – Age 23 Deborah also joined the RBLR that day and coincidentally became our 2000th member – well done on both counts! As far as I am aware there is myself, Dave Bayliss and Toni, Barry Halley + Ted Rogerson and James Melia from the GWNW registered to do the RBLR 1000 2010 event. Why am I doing it; firstly it is the challenge of completing 1000 miles in under 24 hours but secondly and more importantly, raising monies for the Poppy appeal.
About the Author: 
Lesley | Dec 28, 2009 | Reply
Whoa!!!!!! That was Barry committing to the iron butt not me lol, Barrys didnt change the name before writing the above, I cant even hold the bike up never mind ride it for 1,000 miles. But good luck to my hubby for wanting to do this, I will be there to wave him off and welcome him back!
Chairman | Dec 28, 2009 | Reply
Lesley Halley wrote
I know it was sweet heart, but it made far more intertesting reading if everyone thought it was you with an Iron Butt. I believe Barry already has one darling
Crezz | Dec 28, 2009 | Reply
I had to look twice when you mentioned Lesley was doing it….
You may have gone to the wrong site based on the link above, this is the one I was talking about http://www.rblr1000.co.uk/
It is over seen by the Iron Butt Org UK, to ensure that everyone conforms to the rules etc. If anyone else is interested plus go to the RBLR website and register there. I have a feeling we could have a good turnout of Wings in this rideout.
I am doing the Northern clockwise route if anyone is interested and my son in law will be on the back of the bike to keep me awake!!!
dave and toni | Dec 28, 2009 | Reply
we are going to comit to do the run tomorrow as a team – yep toni is coming 2 – hmmm 1,000 miles on a trike bring it on we are up 4 it!!!!!!!!!! she is my dominatrix sat nav ( i could not navigate my way out of a plastic bag without her)
Crezz | Dec 28, 2009 | Reply
Could I be as bold to suggest that we all ride together on this one? That way we provide support and encouragement to each other.
Biggles and Ginger | Dec 28, 2009 | Reply
I am up 4 that crezz any more takers?????????
barry | Dec 28, 2009 | Reply
Not a problem as i have back problems it would be a help to ride with some body who knows how it all works i will speak to you about it at the party if not before hand.
sending the cheque of tomorrow.
thanks for the offer..
i am fired up for this one
Biggles and Ginger | Dec 29, 2009 | Reply
just signed up so – party time in leeds huh on the 20th – deep regret party when we finish. Happy to be going 4 the trip. Barry bringing wife so she will give your back T and sympathy!!!!!!
Lesley | Dec 29, 2009 | Reply
Barrys wifey will be there…in the motorhome! Squires cafe does free camping and caravaning as long as you spend your monies inside, I forsee a very hazy weekend whilst Barry is trying to raise monies for a very worthwhile cause aqround the country!
Biggles and Ginger | Dec 29, 2009 | Reply
could this be the resurrection of the “SUPPORT VEHICLE” like at woodvale, bringing the extras, petrol,warm clothing,brandy, brandy,brandy,vodka,vodka,hot tea/coffee, and most of all FAGS cos he will need some dry one’s if it wet (sssssssssssshhhhhhhhhhh lets hope 4 sun) One last request tables/chairs and a tea urn so we can have a brew.
Yeah every GNW event has to have some luxury!!
Crezz | Jan 14, 2010 | Reply
Now that this has been on here for a few weeks, is anyone else considering taking part in the event?
It would be good to have several more members taking part.
Lesley | Jan 14, 2010 | Reply
Jimmy Melia and Steve Fox and Ted Rodgerson have all spoke to Barry about it. Think Barry wants to bend your ear at the “do” about it
barry | Jan 16, 2010 | Reply
crezz.
i am taking ted on my bike i have spoken to jimmy melia and steve fox who are up for it.
Lets hope a few more take up the challenge.
Chairman | Jan 16, 2010 | Reply
Why not promote the event at future club meetings. I can guarantee you will get more volunteers if a few members organise the run and do it together as Goldwing riders.
Crezz | Jan 31, 2010 | Reply
The official sponsor packs are not ready yet, but I do have the official sponsorship form, that I can e-mail to those who are doing it.
At least this way you can start to get people signed up etc.
If we look at setting a date in Apr to start to firm things up re the event, and then a final one in May just to finalise plans, details, then we will be in a good position for the run.
Crezz | Jan 31, 2010 | Reply
If people text me your e-mail details, I can then forward the form. My number can be found in the members picture section.
Dave & Toni & Eddy | Feb 1, 2010 | Reply
just to confirm our conflab will be at the meeting to discuss run, looking forward to it. My sister said that her work people would sponser us. My mum will take the sponser form round her vast oap mob so hoping can raise a hell of of cash for the poppy appeal. Mum wants to have coffee morning to raise money, where would you put that down on a sponser form!
Crezz | Feb 1, 2010 | Reply
Dave text me your e-mail address then I can get the form over to you.
Crezz | Feb 4, 2010 | Reply
I have e-mailed out the RBLR 1000 packs to all those that have expressed an interest in doing this event. All apart from Jimmy Melia, whom I don’t have an e-mail for.
Crezz | Feb 6, 2010 | Reply
Today I received the complete package through the post for the event. Anyone else?
toni | Feb 13, 2010 | Reply
we have recieved our pack today. feel better now and ready for it…
Crezz | Feb 26, 2010 | Reply
Come on guy’s, it would be nice to get a couple more on this event.
Dave & Toni & Eddy | Feb 27, 2010 | Reply
I echo what you you say Crezz – we ALL have the tool to do the job so why not!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Crezz | Mar 11, 2010 | Reply
Start time. The original start time for bikes to be able to leave was 0900hrs, that has now been brought forward so riders can leave anytime from 0530hrs onwards, with the last being at 0830hrs. Given it is daylight from 0500hrs I feel it would be prudent if we could get an early start, say 0600hrs. This would give us about 17 hours of light.
What do you all think?
Bob | Mar 11, 2010 | Reply
I think your all nuts. Put me down for £20.00 sponsorship.
toni | Mar 12, 2010 | Reply
I know we’re nuts. Time sounds right to me and Dave.
Dave | Mar 12, 2010 | Reply
JUST 1 THING – WHERE ARE WE GOING TO STAY THE NIGHT FOR FRIDAY NIGHT IN LEEDS – ANY THOUGHTS?? TIME NO PROBS (DRIVER TALKING) THE EARLIER THE START THE BETTER – WE GET A JUMP ON THE MORNING TRAFFIC.
Dave | Mar 12, 2010 | Reply
ANOTHER THING (LAST 1 PROMISE) HOW ABOUT FOOD AND DRINK?? HAVE GOT THE MADNESS ALREADY THAT 1 EASY.
Crezz | Mar 12, 2010 | Reply
Thanks Bob.
Crezz | Mar 12, 2010 | Reply
Dave, I am riding from home on the morning of the event. Looking at leaving at about 0430hrs.
toni | Mar 12, 2010 | Reply
looking for a room with safe parking near start
toni | Mar 12, 2010 | Reply
can we talk food arrangements at some stage? pls crezz
Crezz | Mar 13, 2010 | Reply
Like I said before, we need to meet up and thrash bits and bobs out, so everyone is happy and we all know what we are doing. That meeting needs to take place in Apr, we can sort a date at the next club meeting.
toni | Mar 14, 2010 | Reply
thats fine with us
roger fogg | Mar 17, 2010 | Reply
I agree with Bob. I don’t think i could stay awake for that long,still there are those who can and those who can’t so i will stay with the latter.I hope you all have a great time and ride safe.
Roger
Crezz | Mar 18, 2010 | Reply
Roger, you are correct, everyone is different and I am sure we will only find out what our short comings are when we do it. That said, there is still plenty of leeway (all things being equal) with the time, to stop, and have a powernap, at the side of the bike, then continue onwards.
I am hoping that we can build into the ride that sort of window of opportunity later in the day/night.
Frank and Judy Goodman | Mar 20, 2010 | Reply
For those of us who don’t feel they can do it, the next best thing is to sponser one of our brave guys and help raise money for the poppy appeal, we’ll certainly be doing that, come on you lot, put your hands in your pockets and dig deep.
Crezz | Mar 23, 2010 | Reply
I know Bob has said he will sponsor us, but if members want to do that, then can I suggest that it be done equitably across all of the riders, in other words we all get a few names and monies on our sponsor forms?
Crezz | Mar 23, 2010 | Reply
Thanks Frank & Judy for your support.
Crezz | Mar 24, 2010 | Reply
Thank you for your support on this Frank & Judy.
If members would like to sponsor us, then can I suggest, we try to make it even across all of the riders, to make it fair.
Crezz | Mar 24, 2010 | Reply
Seems I got carried away with the above LOL.
Lynne (the sister) | Mar 25, 2010 | Reply
what about a justgiving.com page?
Crezz | Mar 26, 2010 | Reply
We could set one of them up, but I am sure I have heard that it can’t be gift aided, could be wrong. Will need to check it out.
Crezz | Mar 29, 2010 | Reply
Sorted and here it is:
http://www.justgiving.com/Adrian-Crezz-Cresswell
People can donate through the page direct to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
Thanks.
Lynne (the sister) | Mar 30, 2010 | Reply
Hi Crezz,
I’m jumping up behind Steven Fox for this one (he’s so kind!!)- not least because Lesley tried every which way to get me on a Goldwing and become involved so that I could share in the great time she was having, so I’m doing it for her! Can you please include me in the team on your justgiving page so that I can direct my family/friends there?
Thanks!
Crezz | Mar 30, 2010 | Reply
Lynne, tell me your last name and I will add you to the team.
Lynne (the sister) | Mar 31, 2010 | Reply
opps – would help I suppose!!! Shaw.
Thanks!
Crezz | Mar 31, 2010 | Reply
Done.
Steven Fox | Apr 3, 2010 | Reply
For Crezz, I do not see a problem with a 6am start. I will be staying in Castleford the night before so will be there ready at 5.30am with Lynne, Barry, Ted, plus 2 other pillions (Chris and wife, sorry forgot the name). Lynne and me have already tried a test run of 322 miles in 12 hours and have sorted some potential problems with comfort out, so on the day things should run smoothly. Looking forward to this very much!
toni | Apr 3, 2010 | Reply
Just booked the hotel – in the same 1 as you crezz. When do you want the meeting and which venue??
Lynne (the sister) | Apr 5, 2010 | Reply
Further to Steven’s remarks above can I add that I was very comfortable indeed!!!
Crezz | Apr 7, 2010 | Reply
Hi Guys,
I am sat here in France typing this mail. All seems to be coming together bit by bit.
Toni, I am not booked into any hotel, I will be coming from home at 0430hrs. The link I sent, was the one that one of the RBLR guy’s is staying at.
Is there any chance that we could all meet up just to finalise any finer points? I was going to suggest the next club meeting but I am in Wales doing my Bike Safe course. Will the meeting in May be too late?
toni | Apr 8, 2010 | Reply
May should be ok. If this is ok with the rest of the team.
Dave | Apr 8, 2010 | Reply
Nah not too late at all – the nearer the meet the fresher ideas stay in your brain or is it brian!! Got the Hotel booked so we can go over friday and chill and prepare. Also to bed test – to see if I like it. Premier Inn beds are great – but I suppose after a 1000 miles a bed is a bed right!
Lynne (the sister) | Apr 9, 2010 | Reply
There’s a briefing on the Friday night so perhaps those of us that can be there should – might be useful!
toni | Apr 10, 2010 | Reply
sorry Lynne which Friday ?
Dave | Apr 10, 2010 | Reply
What meeting are you on about??? Crezz is team leader and meeting is arranged for mays meeting. We do not need two leaders on this!!
Lynne (the sister) | Apr 10, 2010 | Reply
I’m talking about the briefing for all riders on Friday 18th June at Squires – it’s on the RBLR1000 web site.
Steven Fox | Apr 10, 2010 | Reply
Just two points which I’d like to mention if I may. The first being the Friday briefing is the night before the RBLR 1000 organised by their committee as stated on the web site in Sherburn at 1800 hours and Lynne found that latest information out and is just disseminating on behalf of us all (the team) which is appreciated. Secondly Crezz is the leader and no one as stated otherwise. Every little bit or tip will help here for our benefit so I hope that clarify’s the situation. Again we have a long day ahead and plenty to plan for this and once over I will be so pleased personnally and for the team too. Note most people will be travelling in pairs and we are 6 Goldwings together which is a great feat in itself. All for one and one for all as they say.
toni | Apr 10, 2010 | Reply
Thank you lynne and Steve for clearing up that point. I can mind read for the Baylis Clan (hubby and 2 sons ) but not for the whole world yet.
Crezz | Jun 11, 2010 | Reply
Well we have just one week to go before we take on this epic ride.
All our plans seem to have come together, well hopefully and everyone is now geared up to do what will be a fantastic journey, not just physically, but mentally.
I know you will all be sick of me saying, but if you haven’t sponsored us then please consider doing it now.
Many thanks,
The Team