So what has inspired this overweight, unfit 55+ year old to take on this challenge of cycling 445 miles of breath-taking Irish countryside? Well.....

My wife is a Registered Nurse who works for Marie Curie and my son (who is joining me on the challenge) works for KPMG who have designated Marie Curie as their sponsored charity. I suppose therefore it was just a matter of time before I did my own bit for the charity.

Having watched my son Jamie complete a half ironman event last September I was inspired to undertake a challenge myself, but also to do something that we could do together. We both enjoy cycling albeit my current experience is limited to the odd pootle for an hour around our local roads. Jamie  has a slightly better pedigree on a bike having cycled the length of France and held the World Record for the fastest Lands End to John 'o' Groats (LEJOG) on a triplet cycle (tandem for three)!

Finally having been made aware from friends, family and even complete strangers about just what a difference the support from Marie Curie made to them and their loved ones at the end of life, I realise just how vital it is to make sure this support can continue.

So there we have it three reasons for me to purchase my first set of cycling shoes and cleats and commence an intensive period of training! I'll be posting regular updates about my progress (or otherwise) towards the event in June so please watch out for those.

In the meantime I would be grateful if you could provide me with some moral support and Marie Curie with some cash by sponsoring me on this journey.... and what a journey it promises to be!!

https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved/charity-events/cycling/cycle-ireland#itinerary

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