Matt Barrett, Mark Denning, Steve Parry, Nick Baker and Stuart Coles of the Sid Valley Cyclo-Paths – Are preparing over the coming months to ride from John O’Groats to Land’s End. 900 miles of cycling ahead of them which they will hope to cycle 120 miles a day!!
They are riding to raise money for Dream-A-Way Sidmouth, a brand new sub-group formed from the success of local fundraisers and committee members from Dream-A-Way.
“We’re doing something in one week that most people do in two,” said Matt, who works at Exeter College.
“We’ve got four-and-a-half months to train – it will soon go. We’re really up against it.
“I’m excited about it but I don’t think any of us are under any illusion of how difficult it’s going to be.”
The 36-year-old will ride with compliance manager Nick, 42, Mark, a 44-year-old builder, Stuart, 28, and Steve, a bar owner, who at 57 is the oldest rider.
The foursome have chosen the arguably more difficult ‘downhill’ route – but say they would rather tackle Exmoor, Bodmin and Dartmoor to finish in sunny Cornwall than face a 20-hour drive back from northernmost Scotland.
“The first couple of days the adrenaline will be running, but then it will be a real test of our stamina and our willpower,” said Matt.
Supporting them will be a pair of drivers, Russell Belairs and Merv Baker, who will carry spares and ride on ahead to find a mechanic should any major damage occur.
He is appealing for businesses to sponsor their jerseys or anyone interested in sponsoring the ride to email him at mrbarrett@talk21.com.
Update:-
The lads made it across the land and so far have raised thousands of pounds to the charities involved
Jeff Merrett Chairman said
Everyone connected with Dream-A-Way really are proud that these terrific guys have worked so hard to achieve their challenge
Chairman Jeff Merrett MBE said : “These 5 local men have cycled almost one thousand miles from John O Groats to Lands End in just 7 days.. An awesome achievement and the money raised will be well used to help make the impossible, possible for many local families”
The Sid Valley Cyclo Paths fundraising is gathering pace as they race towards a record fundraising total
What a truly tremendous challenge by 5 tremendous men
There are still looking for donations and below is the Virgin Giving account to donate to this challenge
