Cycling the Rioja: 200 Miles for Pernicious Anaemia

Last year, PAS Trustee Andy Emerson and a dedicated group of friends took on the Camino de Santiago. They covered 128km and climbed over 2,400 metres, raising an incredible £1,400 to help those living with Pernicious Anaemia.

But the journey isn’t over. This April, the team is back in the saddle for a new, gruelling challenge: A 6-day cycle through the rugged Rioja region of Spain.

The Challenge

Between Sunday 12th April and Friday 17th April 2026, Andy and his team will navigate the rolling hills and steep climbs of northern Spain. This isn't just a scenic ride; it is a test of endurance covering 202 miles (325km) and a total ascent of 7,782 feet (2,372m).

The Itinerary:

Day 1: Logroño to San Millán de la Cogolla (633m climb)

Day 2: San Millán de la Cogolla to Ezcaray (421m climb)

Day 3: Ezcaray to Haro (The "flat" recovery leg!)

Day 4: The Haro Loop (348m climb)

Day 5: Haro to Laguardia (593m climb)

Day 6: The final push back to Logroño (297m climb)

Why Andy is Riding

Andy is pedalling through the picturesque Spanish countryside to shine a light on a condition that is often "invisible." Pernicious Anaemia is an autoimmune condition that affects the absorption of Vitamin B12, leading to debilitating fatigue, neurological issues, and a significant impact on quality of life.

As a Trustee, Andy sees how The Pernicious Anaemia Society (PAS) works tirelessly to:

Improve Diagnosis: Helping patients get identified sooner to prevent permanent nerve damage.

Advance Treatment: Advocating for better, more personalised treatment protocols.

Provide Support: Providing a lifeline for those navigating the complexities of the condition.

How You Can Help:

Andy will be pedalling through the heart of Spain’s most famous wine region, and while we’ve heard that a nice Tempranillo is excellent for "lubricating the joints," the real fuel for this trip is your support.

He's ready to face the steep climbs and the occasional "sore saddle," but has promised to keep the "whining" to a minimum unless it is some of the vintage Spanish variety.

How You Can Show Your Support:

Whether it’s the price of a caffè con leche to get Andy and his friends moving in the morning, or the equivalent of a fine Rioja Reserva to help us all celebrate at the finish line, every donation goes directly to The Pernicious Anaemia Society.

Your sponsorship ensures that while we’re navigating the hills of Spain, PAS can continue navigating the path toward better diagnosis and treatment for the PA community.

Please donate today and motivate Andy and his friends to reach the finish line in Logroño!