On Sunday 6th July, whilst Lewis Hamilton reigned supreme at Silverstone and Rafa Nadal spent just under 5 hours to defeat Roger Federer, I was taking twice as long to slowly peddle my way up two tortuous  'cols' as I somehow completed a mountain stage of the Tour de France. 

My 165 km bike ride in the Pyrenees from Pau to Hautacam via the infamous and never-ending Col Du Tourmalet (stage 10 of this year's Tour), was made worse by the fact it rained for much of the day, not to mention the cold temperatures and poor visibility at the top of Tourmalet and Hautacam.  

Despite my freezing feet and exhausted body, I completed the course in 9 hours, 58 minutes -  a mere 20 minutes ahead of the broom wagon that sweeps you up if you don't go quick enough.

My ride was in aid of Right to Play. I am attempting to raise £10,250 - £100 for every mile I cycled. If I can achieve this target, Right to Play will be able to reach out to at least 600 more children in Africa next year as a direct result of your donations.

Donating through Justgiving is quick and secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Right To Play gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Alternatively, you can send a cheque, made payable to 'Right to Play UK' , c/o Pitch PR, 39 - 43 Brewer Street, London, W1F 9UD.

Many, many thanks for your support and kind sponsorship. I promise I wont be doing anything this foolish ever again!