Updated on Aug 9th 2010 at 8:10 AM using the JustGiving iPhone app
Well, this particular challenge started on the 1st Aug 2010 and 425 miles later was completed at lunchtime on the 5th Aug 2010. Great fun, had it's moments but I'd definitely do it again. A great sum of money has been raised for a very good cause, thank you to everyone who has donated ..... Stuart
What am I doing?
This is a question I will no doubt ask myself several times over the next few months!! I needed something that would motivate me, something I didn't know if I could actually do, would have to train hard for and something that meant a little to me, a pilgrimage perhaps? something patriotic? ... so ... I decided I'd cycle from the Tower of London to Edinburgh Castle two historic landmarks that have linked many times over the centuries between the English and the Scots.
I am doing this on my own so this is not part of an organised event, I have a road bike, a bag, a SatNav and an iPOD for company. That means I have to plan it carefully (I can hear the doubters now - you know who you are!!)
What charity am I doing this for?
I have set up this page in order to raise money for Cancer Research UK. 1 in every 3 of us will suffer at one time during our lives from a cancer related disease and almost every one of us will be touched by the sometimes devastating effects cancer has through direct experience with a friend, a colleague or a family member. Cancer Research UK funds research on all aspects of cancer, from the most basic nuts-and-bolts of cell biology to large studies of entire populations. They fund the work of around 4,800 scientists, doctors and nurses across the UK, and run specialised institutes dedicated to cancer research.
I have known family members and close friends who have developed cancer and died from their disease. Some died later in life and tragically some died at a younger age from their disease, leaving family behind. I figured it's about time I helped, even if it is only a little,
You can if you like read more about Cancer Research UK, the sobering statistics and their achievements to date here
Why am I doing this?
I start every year needing some form of personal challenge, whether it be a half marathon, a 10k or a few Munroes (scottish mountains over 3000ft) I do it usually to prove that I can still do it, have a bit of clear thinking time, lose a little weight and regain a little fitness (some sceptics say it a mid life thing, not a bit of it!) It's all too easy to concentrate on yourself but to channel your energy in to benefitting someone else less fortunate is more important.
How far is it?
The distance is around 425miles (all uphill) which equates to a minimum of 71 miles a day for 6 days. I will aim for 5 days which is a minimum of 85 miles per day but you never know what lies ahead so 6 days wouldnt be a disaster.
When am I doing it?
I will start at 07:00 on the 1st August 2010 from the river bank on the Tower of London ending at the gates of Edinburgh Castle hopefully 6 days later (or 5 with a fair wind and a nip of Highland Park Malt)
How can you help?
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity. If you'd like to help Cancer Research UK carry on their good work, please donate.
Thank you,
Stuart
