THERE was a big surprise in store for Dexter’s mum, just weeks before her plucky 12 year old was due to cycle to France.
But it resulted in the trip of a lifetime for them both.
Young super-fundraiser Dexter Rosier, who has already gained considerable recognition in the borough for his previous charitable exploits, had decided to ride from his home in Woodley all the way to Paris in time for this year’s Paralympics opening ceremony.
Aiming to support three charities through his efforts; Sport In Mind, Wheelpower, and Fanconi Hope, he began training months ago, gradually building up his stamina.
He was due to travel with two cyclists, his trainer at Places Leisure, Fitness manager Dave Covey, and People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador Daniel Johnson.
But plans can – and did – change.
Dexter’s mum, Sam, explained: “Unfortunately Daniel was injured and couldn’t take part.
“But it was really important to have two cyclists with Dexter, one in front and one behind – so I had to step up, get out my bike and ride to Paris too.”
Sam had very little time to prepare for the trip, and started her training in June.
“It was a really difficult challenge for us both,” she said.
“Very tough physically and mentally – but it was amazing to do this with Dexter.
“He kept me going.”
Enjoying a bit of down time now that he’s back, and taking it all in his stride, Dexter said: “The legs are fine.
“They ached for a couple of days, but that’s all.
“I’m back doing what I love, running around and playing football.
“It was so amazing when we got to Paris, I felt really proud to have completed the journey, and the city was even more fantastic than I had expected.”
Dexter really should feel proud.
The journey had its share of ups and downs, with steep hills and navigation problems to negotiate.
“During the final stretch of the journey we got lost, and it all felt so difficult,” he said.
“We were working really hard, but just found ourselves going in circles.
“Paris seemed to be getting further and further away, and it began to feel like an impossible task.
“But I knew we just had to keep digging mentally, and to keep pedalling.”
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Sam agreed.
“The hills were like nothing I’d seen; one was an 18% incline, and Dave said it was one of the steepest he’d ever encountered.
“But Dexter cycled up it the whole way; he really smashed it.
“And the highlights of the trip were just amazing: a beautiful sunrise cycling through Normandy, being greeted when we finally arrived in Paris at 11.30pm with smiles and pizza, city sightseeing the next day, and watching table tennis at the Paralympics.”
And just prior to his long cycle, Dexter had been to the Paralympic flame lighting ceremony in Stoke Mandeville; something that will stay with him for a long time.
His trip to Paris has already raised more than £11,000.
Sam said: “I’m not sure whether it was brave or stupid of me to join Dexter on this journey.
“But it was one of those experiences you never forget, and I am super proud of what he has achieved.
“It was a lot harder than we had imagined it would be, but he kept smiling and he kept going.
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“Now, I think maybe he needs a bit of a rest.”
Somehow, though, it’s hard to imagine that Dexter will remain still for long.
To support his fundraising effort, people can visit: www.donate.giveasyoulive.com and search for dexters woodley to paris cycle ride.
