Mark

Couch to 15k (elevation) - Le Loop - supporting the William Wates Memorial Trust

Being an inherently lazy person, I couldn't be bothered with the whole couch to 5k run thing, and thought I'd skip a few steps.  So here I am, facing 4 days of cycling in the Alps this July, during which I will cover 659km and ascend 15,100m.  Success measures are simple:

1) Raise a decent amount of money for charity

2) Survive

3) Finish

My previous best attempt at raising money for charity was many years ago at University, when I gave up drinking for 3 months.  This raised a lot of money because most people who sponsored me thought their money was safe (and to be fair, could be forgiven for this mindset) - however I'm pretty strong willed when it suits me, and thus they had to cough up.  Almost 20 years later, and now with 5 kids, such a challenge is now unattainable, so I'm settling for this as a close second.

Being serious for a moment, any donations you can spare will be hugely appreciated.  Le Loop is a fantastic initiative which raises money for the William Wates Memorial Trust.  The charity's 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.

Le Loop follows the official route of the Tour de France, one week ahead of the professionals, and finishes after 21 stages in Paris.

Riders tackle one of a selection of "Loops" riding anything from 2 to all 21 stages of the Tour de France route.  My challenge in the Alps start on the 14th July.

Every participant commits to raising a minimum amount for the William Wates Memorial Trust.  The fundraised money is entirely separate from the participation fee - donations do not pay for my Tour.

Wish me luck!