A few months ago I woke early and in a moment of clarity (read - body Dysmorphia) I saw a honed athlete staring back at me in the mirror. I was hungry for a cycling challenge to prove to myself that I am still a 'narrow-hipped Columbian hill-climber', whilst at the same time raising money for a good cause. The very next day the organiser of our bi-annual European cycling jaunt sent me an email with an opportunity which I snapped up without thinking. Since then I have been 'thinking' and I 'think' this is an epic challenge even for a young athlete like myself!

I have agreed to take part in a Pyrenean Coast to Coast charity bike ride on 28 June 2018. I will be joining a small group of riders who are cycling 424 miles in five days from Biarritz to Perpignan with the aim of raising a combined minimum total of £10,000 for 3 different charities. My chosen charity is Cancer Research in memory of my mum who was taken from my family at the young age of 71 after a 5 year struggle with ovarian cancer.

Our route will wind its way through the French side of the Pyrenees with a massive 46,512ft of climbing across 18 cols (Gulp!) as we head East to West. This includes ascending three famous Tour de France climbs, Col d'Aubisque, Col du Tourmalet and the Col du Peyresourde. Many of you will think this a trifle for a hill-climber like myself but I assure you this is anything but. To put this in context Mt Everest is only 29,000 ft or so above sea level. 

I have funded the cost of the trip myself so 100% of the sponsorship raised goes directly to Cancer Research. I am hoping to raise £1000 or more so please help me with that endeavour as this is a very worthy charity whose work could benefit any or all of us in the future.

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and sponsor me today. Many thanks for your support.

John Evans