On Sunday 28th of October after racing the HSBC National Trophy Cyclocross at Irvine Beach Park I am bikepacking to Hull and sailing to the Heartland of Cyclocross. I aim to race and finish one of the most prestigious professional cyclocross races in the world, the Koppenbergcross in Flanders. 

The Koppenbergcross race uses the iconic Koppenberg climb that is often used in the Belgian cycling Monument 'De Ronde Van Vlaanderen' (Tour Of Flanders). This is a very steep and cobbled climb which we will race for 1 hour + 1 lap. 

In this years race the reigning World Champion Wout Van Aert and defending Koppenbergcross and 2017 World Cup overall winner,  Mathieu Van Der Pol are expected to fight for victory. 

During this 335 mile bikepacking trip, my fiend and volunteer mechanic George Eccleston will ride and camp self-sufficiently. George will ride my spare bike and help me on race day. If you would like to live track our journey you can use this link to do so - https://www.wahooligan.com/users/live/gr-OOGRNU_0ZnczDhqrLUA

​In this day and age, Positive Mental Health is thankfully moving to the front of our minds. Slowly the stigma surrounding mental health issues is being challenged, but there is still a long way to go.

Being outdoors, riding bikes and staying fit is a huge part of my life and I view riding my bike, enjoying nature and setting challenges as an essential way to manage my moods and keep myself happy. It is my therapy. 

I have benefited personally by talking openly and honestly about my own mental health issues with my family and friends. I am not ashamed to admit that I have visited my doctor for help when it's been apparent that I have been suffering with low moods and depression. 

I have lost too many friends as victims of suicide and this is why I have chosen to raise money for CALM. 

The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is leading a movement against male suicide, the single biggest killer of men under 45 in the UK. Their goal is a life less miserable for you, your friends, your family and for all men.

CALM PROVIDES

>A free and anonymous helpline 0800 585858 and webchat (5pm-12am daily) staffed by trained professionals

>Bereavement support 

>A website www.theCALMzone.net with inspiring content by men for men>Campaigns tackling stereotypes of masculinity, suicide and male mental health.

Help CALM save lives.