In 2005 Martin and I, inspired by my Brother Nick’s brave fight against cancer, decided that we would embark on a challenge to raise money for the amazing charities that have supported him. Motivated and full of enthusiasm we took on the Great North Run 2005, raising £500+ between us.
After many celebratory drinks that night we promised to each other that we would take on one challenge each year that we would could raise money through. 2005 turned into 2006 and due to family commitments on both parts we had yet to nominate our next challenge, that was until…..
2.30am Sunday 12 June 2006.- Rob has inspiration and enthusiastically punches in Martins number filled with excitement and offers
“ Mate I’ve got it I have the next challenge!!! We’ll cycle John O’Groats to Lands End!”
“Go away Rob” was the equally enthusiastic reply.
So in June 2006 we set about planning our historic bike ride! Despite the doubters (No names but, Nick Wright is now part of the team! Not forgetting the bet between friends which upon completion could be, but hopefully not the major financial contribution) we were undeterred and started planning for August 2007.
Inevitably 2006 passed by with no further progress, and with the arrival of Martin’s son Ethan in November 2006, the bike ride was put back on the back burner. A poor show considering our promise to each other which has further fuelled the passion to achieve our goal a.s.a.p.!
In July 2007 my Brother Nick lost his fight with cancer. He was the bravest and most dignified young man I am ever likely to meet and I consider myself incredibly lucky to have had him as my brother and friend, even though it was for a short time. I know he inspired every one he met with his attitude to life, intelligence and humour. He taught me that life can only get you down if you let it and if you want to achieve something there is no excuse to not go for it.
So here we are, the challenge set out by a drunken friend. Ride from John O’Groats to Lands End in 10 days. EASY!!
John O’Groats to Lands End Bike Ride 2008
Team: Rob Gill / Martin Roberts / Carl Murray / Nick Wright / Jon Gill / Tony Willis / Tom Gill / Rhod Shipley
Start: Monday 11 August 2008
10 days consecutive cycling
100 miles per day average distance covered
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