Well, the ride was completed succesfully but not exactly as planned. The first day went very well but the second day was different story as I didn't plan any rest or food stops and ended up falling off!

Many thanks to everyone who sponsored me. Next time I'll have to advertise this site a bit more!

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140 grueling miles, 2 sweltering days, 1 decrepit old cyclist!

Geoff Evans of 'Sailtales.co.uk' takes on the Coast to Coast Challenge for the RNLI. 140 miles over 2 days from Whitehaven to Sunderland.

The C2C Challenge Charity Ride organized by 'The C2C Guide' will run for the first time this year and I believe it will become a classic yearly event.

I will be riding as part of my on-going efforts to raise funds for the RNLI. Many cyclists will be wondering where's the challenge? Well, this time last year I couldn't ride five miles and, if there were any hills ... forget it! In order to complete the challenge I need to cover 76 miles in the first day followed by another 64 the following day.

The hardest part of a bike ride can be just getting on the thing and going out but that is something that the volunteer crews of the the Lifeboats don't even think about. If someone's in trouble they drop everything and answer the call whatever the weather. That's what will get me out there and keep me going.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: RNLI - Royal National Lifeboat Institution 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.

So please sponsor me now!

Find out more about the C2C Challenge 2009 at http://cycle-challenge.co.uk/