Profile 12 sees the return of a key member of last year’s ride. Ben Nicholson is one of a small number to have any mechanical understanding of how a bike actually works. We talked to Ride to Northampton’s handyman.
Name: Ben Nicholson
Age: 18
Occupation: Lifeguard
Favourite York Player: Scott Flinders
Favourite York Game: 2012 play off final
Question 1 – Why?
It was a tragic event which sadly happened to David Henderson, by doing the bike ride and raising money it helps prevent this unwanted situation happening to less people. Last year the bike ride was an unreal experience and hopefully this years will be just as good.
Question 2 – How much preparation have you done so far and how much do you plan on doing?
Compared to last year, not much at all. I still go out on the bike and train every now and again but compared to the run up to last years I have done not enough, I plan to up this a lot before February.
Question 3 – What do you think you will bring to the bike ride?
Having done some road cycling for a few years now I bring a bit of cycling knowledge, and a bit of bike mechanical knowledge. Last year I seemed to be the one who fixed the punchers so no doubt this year ill probably end up doing the same.
Question 4 – What do you think will be the hardest aspect of the ride?
The first half of the last day I felt was the toughest part last year, not only because I fell off within 100m of departure but it was very hilly which made it hard work to say the least.
Question 5 – Who are you looking forward to biking with the most and the least?
Mr Robert Corker was a joy to cycle with last year, especially going up the infamous corker hill, also me and Craig Atkin seemed to be able to get some good pace and speed going when we cycled together which was very fun. I’m looking forward to cycling with everyone however I know Nath Brigham has been doing a lot of training so I’m quietly scared he could be faster than me this year.
Question 6 – If you could choose any York City player either past or present to bike with you, who would it be?
Has to be Jon Challinor, seems like one of the nicest guys ever.
Question 7 – Do you predict any injuries or falls for yourself or other riders?
Well I fell of straight away on the last day last year, so I probably expect the same from myself this year. I also have a slight feeling Mr Joe Pinder may have a fall at some point.
Question 8 – What’s the first thing you’ll do when you finish?
Chuck my bike on the floor, congratulate everybody, then go get a burger!!
ride to northampton 2 