Ride Le Loop
Right, where to begin. I suppose I better start with the headline that in the summer of 2025 I will be cycling 11 stages of the Tour de France. Yes, really.
The Pyrenees, Mont Ventoux, the Alps are all on the 1500km route, before finishing on the iconic Champs Elysées on July 20th.
I watched the Tour de France since the days of Fignon and Lemond and . But my favourite was Eric Breukink. I watched him live on Alpe 'd Huez in 1990. Not even in my wildest dreams did I think I'd be cycling half the Tour myself. But people do stupid things and this is mine.
Le Loop follows the official route of the Tour de France, one week ahead of the professionals and finishes 21 stages later in Paris
On July 10th I will join around 100 riders in Toulouse, where my part of this adventure begins.
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.
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!
Chapeau. Great challenge for a great cause.