We have (perhaps rashly) decided to embark on an epic journey to cycle together across America. We will be starting from the Pacific Ocean in Los Angeles on 11May, and all being well, will arrive at the Atlantic Ocean in Boston on 29 June.  The total distance is 3,415 miles.  Over 50 days, we will cross 15 states, pass through deserts, navigate mountain passes and experience all that Middle America has to offer: breath-taking scenery, rural “railroads”, wild dogs, fast food and American hospitality.

 

So, I hear you ask, why on earth are you doing this? For Becky, the main reasons are that having already cycled the 1,017 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 2007, I felt that being half- American I now needed to accept the bigger challenge of crossing the USA as well. I clearly could not do this on my own. Who would be bold enough to join me? Well, my Dad of course! Last winter I asked if he would join me, and after a few days deliberation, he agreed. So why is he doing it? ‘For the good of my soul (and hopefully for my body)’, to support the work of Mind, and of course, to spend time with Becky.

 

We both know that it a privilege to have the time and resources to undertake this trip, so wanted to use this unique opportunity to support a cause about which we feel passionate: to help raise more awareness about the problems of mental health and support the work of a reputable and effective organisation working in this field.  Mental health is not only a major issue in this country, but also that the problems of mental health are insufficiently recognised, talked about and funded. We know, too, that they have grown in scale in recent years and months with the severe and disproportionate cut-backs in public sector funding to those with disabilities. As a result, we have decided to raise money for one of the UK’s leading mental health and campaigning organisations: Mind (www.mind.org.uk).

 

Not being technically minded, barely able to change a tyre (tire) let alone navigate our route and locate our lodgings, we decided it would be best to join with an organisation that specialises in long distance cycling. Therefore, we will be travelling as part of a larger group of about 25 cyclists with an organisation called CrossRoads Cycling, which provides full support and back up (http://www.crossroadscycling.com).

 

We have set up our first ever blog specifically for the trip. We will provide regular (hopefully daily) updates on our progress. See: riddellcycle.webs.com

 

Our ambition is to try to raise £10,000 for Mind. All our expenses are already covered so all sponsorship money will go directly to Mind. We have set up an easy way to give money. If you were to give 1p for every mile one of us rides, this would amount to £34. Clearly if you are able to give more, then this would be greatly appreciated and help us to achieve our goal more quickly.

 

Thanks and best wishes,

 

Becky and Roger