UPDATE: This amazing group did it (including Isaac leading from the front)! 17 days of cycling. 1256 miles (2022km) and 62652ft (19000m) of elevation. That's more than twice the height of Everest! Max temp of 38C (100F). A lot of punctures mainly on gravel.

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The route: https://www.komoot.com/collection/1990547/-rome-to-home

Over July and August, I will be joining Regenerate charity on their massive adventure, where we will be cycling from Rome to Home, through the Alps and via Paris onto London, which is 1250 miles (2000km), an average of 70 miles (110km) a day  over 2.5 weeks and 65,000 feet (22,000m) of elevation in total! This will be a huge challenge for me and the group of around 25 people including a number of young people that have not been on any cycling trips before, and one that requires mental strength and perseverance. I've not done anything like this before but by doing it, assuming the knees last that distance, I hope to support Regenerate's aim of encouraging everyone to dream BIG, and raise £50k to continue their mission of creating opportunities for young people to thrive. Regenerate are a great charity that my wife Nikki and others have done amazing work providing 1.5 million community food meals desperately needed during the pandemic. They also run The Feel Good Bakery (TFGB) that provides training, mentoring and employment for young people so that they can grow in confidence and key skills, make positive changes in their lives and impact their community for good. Young people growing up in Roehampton and Putney face challenges in life that affect their outcomes both in the short and long term.

Please sponsor us as we take on this challenge to help Regenerate reach their fundraising target ... and follow our progress here:  https://www.instagram.com/regenerate_ldn/

This is Isaac's story, one of the young people that is coming on the ride who has not done any road cycling before (but is already much faster than me unsurprisingly!)

My name is Isaac. Back in 2020, I became involved with Regenerate, a community organisation dedicated to making a positive impact in our local area in London. During the lockdown, I witnessed Regenerate's efforts in delivering food boxes to families in need. Intrigued and motivated to contribute, I asked for an opportunity to assist, and I was fortunate enough to participate in the distribution of these essential supplies. Our efforts were even captured by the BBC, and together we reached hundreds of homes, including my own. As a nurse, my mother received a weekly box and greatly appreciated it.

Over the years, my involvement with Regenerate has transformed my life in remarkable ways. Previously hesitant to interact with others, I found a supportive community at Regenerate, connecting with peers my age and benefiting from the guidance of dedicated youth workers. This environment has not only allowed me to make new friends but has also boosted my confidence significantly. Today, my life has taken a completely different path.

Through Regenerate's youth club, I discovered a passion for running and cycling. I now proudly represent Hercules Wimbledon in various competitions. Moreover, I have embarked on an intensive cycle training program in preparation for a major fundraising endeavour on behalf of Regenerate. Alongside a small group of young people, I will be cycling from Rome to London, covering a distance of 2000km over 18 days, with two designated rest days. While I am excited about this incredible journey, I cannot deny the mix of anticipation and nervousness that comes with conquering the Alps. Nevertheless, we are committed to rigorous training to ensure we are fully prepared.

I am writing to kindly request your support for our cycling fundraiser. Your contribution would not only help us achieve our fundraising goals but also enable Regenerate to continue their vital work within our community. Your generosity will make a genuine difference in the lives of numerous individuals, fostering personal growth, community engagement, and transformative experiences, just as it did for me.

If you are interested in supporting our cause, please click the link.  Additionally, any words of encouragement or advice would be greatly appreciated as we prepare for this challenging endeavour.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my request. Your support means the world to me and the countless individuals whose lives will be positively impacted by Regenerate's ongoing initiatives. Together, we can create lasting change and empower the youth in our community.

Wishing you all the best, Isaac L

https://regenerate-london.org/rome-2-london/