Punctures, tantrums and big hills aside, we're hoping to complete the Etape du Tour 2010 this Sunday, 18th July. A little bit like our training, this is our last minute request for sponsorship.

The Etape du Tour is a mountain stage of the Tour du France open to cycling enthusiasts as well as dreamers like us whose training comprises reading too many Lance Armstrong books. This year's Etape is in the Pyrénées, 100 years since the Tour's first visit to the area.

On Sunday morning just over 9,000 lycra-clad (yes, even Nick) cyclists will leave the city of Pau to cycle 181km and climb 3 mountain cols: the Col du Marie-Blanque (9.5km at 7.5%), the Col du Soulor, (22km at 4.9%) and the Col du Tourmalet (19km at 7.4%).

We'll be among them, somewhere near the back.

Most of you are used to Nick taking on daft sporting challenges; Is questions on a daily basis how she got involved in this one. Raising money for a worthwhile charity at least seems sensible.

We've chosen to support Mind, which promotes and protects good mental health for all. With one in four people likely to experience a mental health problem every year, many of us will have to deal directly or indirectly with the challenges and distress caused by poor mental health.

Donating through this webpage is simple and secure. Your details are safe, the charity receives your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Dig deep, just like we will on Sunday! Thank you for your support.