Alan's handbike321…is go

I can’t walk, run or ride a traditional bicycle, but I can power a 3 wheel handbike, relying on my 2 arms for drive and 1 leg for steering. I do not underestimate the challenge of covering 900 miles in my recumbent handbike from Lands’ End to John o’ Groats in July 2026 and especially the 43,500ft of climb ………… but to raise significant funds 4 MNDA, a charity whose work is so important, it has to hurt and be a lifetime challenge. This is no mean ‘feat’!!!

Thirty years ago, two recently retired work colleagues were diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). I saw first-hand how MND stripped away the health of those very active men, and promised myself when I reached a similar age I would raise funds for ongoing research and development, and ways to assist patients and families. The MND Association will channel the funds I raise into these two areas of need.

Ron told me “many thousands are diagnosed with MND every year and there are around 7,000 adults living with MND in the UK. That was such an eye opener and I remember the day vividly. Yet Ron’s memory and recall was 100% as we joshed about people and places. Mike, was a very private person and his family looked after him at home. When MND patients’ muscles fail through lack of use and they become bed-ridden help is needed to turn them. Mike’s family were desperate to hire an assistive bed but at the time there were none available. Ron and Mike’s stories of 30 years ago continue to motivate me today.

Whilst there is still no cure for MND, research in the intervening years has supported progress in treatments and therapies which can prolong muscle function. So, whilst I am able, I will cycle 900 miles on my recumbent handbike in my 70th year and raise funds to assist those in need with an MND diagnosis.

I had planned to cycle Lands’ End to John o’ Groats (‘LEJOG’) in 2021 when I was 65, but Covid put paid to training. So, here I am in my 70th year and in July 2026 I start with the steep climbs in Cornwall and Devon and am greeted along the way with Shap and many climbs in Scotland (a total climbed elevation of 43,500ft …….. 10 x Ben Nevis). Fortunately, there are some flatter areas and downhill segments to enjoy and raise my average speeds to meet my target of 900 miles in 17 days.

I will be supported by family and friends who will cycle with me at an average speed of 6-7mph chatting away, keeping me sane and encouraging me - especially on the climbs!

My fundraising target is to raise £70,000 in the 7th month of my 70th year. It’s shocking how many of us have relatives and friends who have died of MND, so I feel confident of support from those I know and a wider audience - if each friend spreads the word about my endeavour to another friend and so on, then we can reach my ambitious target - it’s only £77.77 per mile!!! Thank you so very much for your support and Gift Aid where applicable.

Follow me on Instagram @handbike321

Sponsor me on here and your money will change the lives of people affected by Motor Neurone Disease in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. JustGiving will send your donation directly to the MND Association.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure – your details are safe, they’ll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Every penny of your donation matters. THANK YOU