Made it!!

First, a huge thank you to all those who generously gave to Macmillan, it's really appreciated. Its been a fantastically successful fundraising event overall with a projected total of around £400,000. This will be used to help a large number of people and so thanks again for your contribution.

As for the race itself, 4,500 cyclists massing at the start was quite a sight , including ex world champion Graham Obree, James Cracknell and Ben Fogle (crashed after 55 miles – broken finger and black eye).  A good crowd had gathered to see us off as we set off in batches, even though it was 7am.

Racing on closed roads was fantastic with the only dangers being the odd sheep and crash as groups formed and broke apart. Although I admit I didn’t have time to admire it on the day, the scenery round the route (especially from the top of the hills!) was stunning as can be seen by my uploaded photos of the views taken the day before the race.

Although a remote area, people were out cheering us on all the way round the course and a large crowd at the end helped tired legs sprint to the finish in a time of 4hr 5mins for the 81 miles, placing me 441^st. I’ll leave you to decide if I was smiling for the cameras or grimacing in the uploaded photos of the race itself.

 

Thanks again for your generous support

Best Wishes

Mark

 

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