Geoff Thomas Foundation - Tour 2007

Geoff Thomas joined Crewe in Dario's first season at Gresty Road after Rochdale released him as a youngster. He made an instant impact and went on to a glittering football career in which he played in a FA Cup final and won eight caps for England. In 2002/03 he returned to Crewe for one final season, and he didn't let his adopted club down with what was a fantastic season.

Unfortunately in July 2003 Geoff was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia and given three years to live. Thankfully, after a successful bone marrow transplant Geoff went into remission and decided to dedicate his five years in remission to raising money for leukaemia research.

In 2005, just two years after being diagnosed, Geoff completed the 21 stages of the Tour de France 2005 route in 21 days, cycling 22,000 miles. In the process he raised £170,000 for leukaemia research.

Two years on and Geoff will do it all over again with the 2007 route, hoping to raise even more money for the cause. In July Geoff will cycle 3,550 kilometres over 20 stages that range from flat to mountainous.

Thomas said of his challenge: 'I'm not sure whether it's an advantage or disadvantage having done the Tour in 2005! At least I know what to expect although that's not necessarily a good thing!'

VitalCrewe would like to wish Geoff good luck for July.

If you wish to find out more on Geoff and his new charity, 'The Geoff Thomas Foundation', or wish to donate please visit http://www.geoffthomasfoundation.com.

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