Update: So proud that I completed this ride and in good spirits right until the end. It was not without it's challenges; from a punishing day spent in the rain to the hills that beckoned us home. I loved every moment of the journey; not only did it foster some special friendships but I learned you can push yourself to achieve what you hadn't expected. I've brought home not only a keen passion for cycling but even more of an appreciation for what these charities give back to the community. If you haven't donated, what are you waiting for?

I was invited by a friend to take part in this bike ride several months ago and saw it as a great adventure. I moved to England, sourced out a road bike and away I pedalled; however not as gracefully as I would've liked! Training for this cycle has been a challenge that has not come easily; there have been some hard knocks, learning curves and more than a few humbling moments. Somewhere between my first puncture and fitting my spd's it has blossomed into a passion, and I have fostered some great friendships along the journey. More importantly, I have gathered more insight into what this incredible team is giving back to their community. Their passion is inspiring and the charities are awesome. I am honored to be a part of it.

80% of the funds raised will go towards the new St John's Church Centre building. However, from the total amount, 20% will be donated to two very special local charities; St Michael's Hospice, Basingstoke, which cares for terminally ill patients across North Hampshire, and the Matthew Elvidge Trust, committed to raising awareness of depression in young adults. I am meeting the cost to enter the event myself, so your entire sponsorship money will go directly to the charities. For more information please visit the website here: http://www.hwbikeride.org.uk.

Thank you so much for your interest and support and for visiting my Just Giving page! :) Donating through Just Giving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with Just Giving-they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate-saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.