Lauren Y (S5) will be cycling the flying distance of Edinburgh to London in a rickshaw style relay with five team members in support of Children In Need.

BBC ‘The One Show’ (3:00-14:15) last night announced the chosen finalists who will participate in The Rickshaw Challenge 2020 starting on Friday 6 November. Each cyclist was nominated by a charity who have been previously supported by Children In Need. 

Lauren has Turner Syndrome, Bone Dysplasia and Dwarfism. Hear more from Lauren about her challenges when she spoke to the BBC (10:55 onwards).

Commenting on the official announcement, Lauren says: “I was nominated by the charity Music 4 U.  I have been a member for 11 years and they have helped me through many challenges over the years.

“Music 4 U has received support from Children In Need in the past and I feel that this is one way I can give back. I attended an interview at the London BBC studios in September along with the other finalists where I had to give a speech which I found terrifying. I spoke about myself and how music helps me cope with the pain that I experience and how Music 4 U has made me gain in confidence and accepts me for who I am.

“Due to COVID-19 we cannot travel across the country so instead I will be cycling the 332 miles in a rickshaw relay style with five team members. I have already started the training program set by the BBC which includes healthy eating, workouts and of course cycling which believe it or not I hate! Cycling has been my biggest physical challenge especially on my knees.

“I hope to prove to everyone that no one should let any disability stop them from doing anything in life. I did have a bit of self doubt that I would manage to do the challenge but my friend Michel from Music 4 U sadly passed away recently and this has made me more determined to succeed as I’m not just doing it for myself anymore, but for him too.”

Mr Macpherson, Head of College adds: "What Lauren is taking on is amazing. This is a huge challenge and one that will be physically and mentally very demanding, so it demonstrates just how committed she is to Music 4 U and BBC Children in Need. She really epitomises the values of RGC and we'll be cheering her on all the way."

Mrs Cowie, Deputy Head (S5) comments: “We are incredibly proud of Lauren: she is an exceptional young person and the whole Robert Gordon’s community will be cheering for her as she takes part in this exciting challenge.”

Look out for updates on The One Show each evening from 6 November to keep track of how the team is progressing. If you would like to support Lauren in this challenge you can donate online.