In Memoriam:  Puma colleagues that  tragically lost their lives in a recent accident on operations.  The RAFBF is directly supporting their families, and that of the surviving crew member.

After the Battle of Britain came 'The Blitz' - from the autumn of 1940 to the spring of 1941 the Luftwaffe targeted Britain's industrial machine, including its workforce. 75 years later a lengthy overseas work placement provides the opportunity for me to honour the 40,000+ civilians that were killed, whilst fundraising in the process.

To keep mind and body occupied whilst away I thought I'd take on a little phys challenge - cumulatively running, rowing and cycling the equivalent distance between the 17 British cities that were bombed in The Blitz - all at high altitude. This follows the Spitfires 7s' commemorative Battle of Britain Ride75 (on Bromptons!) and the warm-up for that was the London-Surrey 100 ..... and so far I haven't badgered any friends and family for the customary sponsorship!

Growing up in Bath I was aware of the city having been attacked, albeit in the subsequent 'Baedeker Raids' of 1942 when Nazi raids focused on cultural and historical targets. Therefore this notional journey, completed on the gym machines, will start from and finish in my beloved home town.

The full route is set out below (and roughly shown in this page's gallery) but, in summary, will require over 200 miles of running, 180 miles of rowing and 1230 miles of cycling. All being well I'll be able to get to the gym most days but, whilst I'll never develop legs like Chris Hoy's, there is a danger of ending up with guns like Chris Froome's! I also have a 7s season to return to so will need to balance all the mileage with plenty of weight-training. No idea what I've let myself in for but hopefully the British resolve and fortitude shown during The Blitz will inspire me through the challenge.

Any donations are extremely welcome and will go directly to the fantastic RAF Benevolent Fund, directly supporting current and former servicemen and women in need, and their families.