For twelve years Rapha and Strava have organised the Festive 500. A global cycling challenge to test any cyclists resolve. Each rider is challenged to ride 500km between Christmas Eve and New Years Eve. The progress is captured on the Strava platform and a leader board of those taking part is constantly updated, so progress can be followed.

Each year for the past five years I’ve taken part. Previously I’ve ridden for Blood Cancer UK, Flora and Fauna International and Trussell Trust (Food Banks). It’s tough. I ride reasonably regularly, but having to ride minimum 71.5km every day (I usually take Christmas Day as a ‘carbo stacking’ opportunity!) is a serious mental and physical trial, even for a seasoned cyclist. The weather is always the main issue; with last Christmas Eve being the worst to date: wind, snow, rain, flooding, freezing temperatures and abandoned cars all posing huge issues!!

In July this year I joined Lightsource bp in the UK as a Senior Development Manager and having found out about the great work the Lightsource Foundation is doing it seemed only natural I ride this year in support of the people in Nepal we are striving to help and my colleagues that have already raised a tremendous amount for the foundation. I’ll post every day my progress with a map of the route and pictures to illuminate the kilometres!

Please think of me on those wet cold morning a during Christmas as you tuck into your sweets treats and hot toddies!!