In September I will be attempting to complete the Race Around Ireland cycle race - all 2200km in under 132 hours. This is my biggest challenge to date, a cycle ride equivalent to 12 Ironmans back to back, but ridden as 400km per day. I am the only female solo entrant, and have the same race cut-off as the men. There are 11 solo men racing, including this year's winner of the Race Across America - Christoph Strasser. I am also the only British solo rider.

This race follows hot on the heels of becoming the GB National Ultra Triathlon Champion at double Ironman distance and successfully completing the Race Around Mallorca (312km, 4th woman) and the London to Edinburgh to London Audax ride (1400km).

I will be supported by a fantastic crew who will tend to my nutrition, kit, navigation, well being and bike maintenance: Nadya, Dave, Zoe, Phil and Ele; and by Trek Milton Keynes who are supplying the lovely Tamara Posh-Trek, already a podium placing bike. I cannot do this event without them - so please consider that your sponsorship will be driving a team of 6 to complete this challenge.  

Those who are familiar with my charity fundraising know that I limit my sponsorship appeals to one per year (and it's that time of year again!). I will be splitting my fundraising between two charities: The HALO Trust and Canine Partners. The common theme is FREEDOM. On this page you can sponsor me for The HALO Trust. Please see my other page for Canine Partners.

You will know The HALO Trust - Princess Diana was the patron before Prince Harry took over. They conduct surveys of and clear areas covered in landmines (often a painstaking risky manual task), whilst training up deminers and disposing of weapons which may cause harm to local people. Dave worked for The HALO Trust and I have heard first hand accounts of their work. They are a very worthy cause. I am very lucky to be able to go about my day to day activities, cycle around whole countries and travel to far flung places without the threat of landmines. I cannot imagine having to lose this FREEDOM and for that reason I will be supporting The HALO Trust on this challenge.

Canine Partners are a charity whose principles are close to my heart. I have seen at first hand the steady loss of independence suffered by those with chronic disablement. But I have also seen the joy brought by a loyal pet dog, always keen to support and care for its owner. Canine Partners match trained assistance dogs with those in need of support (whether disabled through illness or through service with the armed forces). These dogs are incredible - they can open doors, retrieve items, help an owner get dressed or undressed, unload washing machines and raise an alarm in an emergency. Each dog gives their owner a increased independence and minimises the need to ask for help for everyday activities. I will happily pedal for this charity to provide others with more FREEDOM.