I'm taking on an epic cycling challenge: Le Loop, over 3400kms of cycling around France.
On Saturday 24th June 2023 I will be in Bilbao setting off on the first of 21 stages of the Tour de France route - Le Loop!
Le Loop follows the official route of the Tour de France, one week ahead of the professionals and finishes 21 stages later in Paris, some 3,400km later.
I will be riding the full route along with approximately 100 other riders some doing all 21 stages and some joining us for just parts of the route. For me it will be an epic challenge and it has already given me a number of sleepless nights wondering if I have what it takes to ride this sort of distance with so many challenging climbs. I've never been a fast cyclist or good at riding the mountains but to ride the Tour de France is a dream and if I don't try then I'll never know. So if you choose to sponsor me you will be giving me an extra reason for not giving up and to keep on pedalling. I'll be thinking of you all when I'm struggling up a 40Km climb, suffering and questioning why I signed up for this!
Every participant commits to raising a minimum amount for the William Wates Memorial Trust (WWMT). The fundraised money is entirely separate from the participation fee - donations do not pay for my Tour.
All monies raised go directly to the William Wates Memorial Trust whose mission is to help the most disadvantaged young people keep away from a life of crime and violence and fulfil their potential. This is achieved by giving grants to charities that engage young people through the medium of sports, arts and education.
The WWMT has helped a charity close to home in Milton Keynes - Ride High. This charity transforms the lives of disadvantaged children and those having difficulties in their lives, giving them the opportunity to learn to ride and care for horses. They also support other charities throughout the UK.
It's been a tough couple of years for charities and particularly for young people. This is my chance to give something back and help support young people who aren't lucky enough to enjoy the advantages in life that most of us take for granted.
Le Loop is no small undertaking. Riding even ONE stage of the Tour de France route is going to hurt! Please reward my pain by giving generously.
Merci!
Sponsoring myself so there is no backing out now!