Sally and I decided to do this challenge at the beginning of the year. The plan was do it quietly as a personal challenge for ourselves. I am not at all sporty so just the training was a major challenge. However in March it took on a new significance. My daughter Ali died in a car accident and my whole world fell apart. The training became something to focus on and probably saved my sanity. Sally and I decided to cycle for Ali's nominated charity, the Horse Trust at Speen, near Princes Risborough. There are up to 150 animals at the trust but the money raised in Ali's name will be used for the care of the 13 horses, ponies and donkeys which were rescued locally by the RSPCA and are now at Speen. Ali loved riding and was never happier than when she was out in the open countryside. Those who knew her would appreciate that she enjoyed the mucky bits just as much! I dont know what she would think about me doing this trip, probably think I am mad but I hope she would be proud. We all miss her so much.
A big thank you to you all for your support and to Sally for encouraging me day by day.
Kathx
Well we made it!
What a fantastic experience and what a challenge. It was so hard cycling through such heat and high humidity that when the monsoon rains came it was wonderfully refreshing- never mind that we couldn't see where we were going! The scenery was spectacular and we ventured into places rarely visited by tourists. The people were so excited to see these strangers that they lined the village tracks to greet us. It was a very humbling experience - they were so satisfied with what little they had. When we reached Cambodia and cycled through the villages we were struck by the lack of old people we encountered - whole generations had been wiped out by Pol Pot and his army. It is a trip that we will never forget.
You have helped us raise nearly £4000 (both on and off line) for the Horse Trust - I am sure Ali would be amazed!
Thank you so much.
Kathx
