ATLAS MOUNTAIN RACE

LEEDS MARATHON

RIDE LONDON

To say Im confident would be a lie.

I turn 62 in March and during 2023 I'm going to do some epic events to push myself like I've never done before.  For those who know me, I aint no athlete, Ive never been that sporty or done physical stuff, but after getting a bike just over 12 years ago, Ive lost weight, felt better and become fitter and done some great rides and Ive even Raced my bike. 

This year Im targeting 3 main events (with some others) to push myself, but also raise funds for Action Medical Research.

Ive chosen Action Medical Research because I learnt about all the good they do pioneering research into Children's medicines and treatments and saving and changing lives when they asked me to host the Champions of CycleSport Dinner last November. 

As you probably know, I don't push any fundraising down peoples throats, but if you think I deserve a 'pat on the back' or want to buy me a coffee or a pint for contesting the Events Ive chosen, then why not make a few quid for an important and fantastic Charity. 

The three Events are the Atlas Mountain Race, The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Ride London as well as also contesting the Sheffield Half Marathon and the Dirty Reiver Gravel Race. 

All in all these will push me beyond my limits, make me keep myself fit and drive me forward. 

I dont have much actual 'ability' on a Bike or Running compared to most, but what I lack in fitness, I make up for with determination and a stupid self belief.

The Atlas Mountain Race will be by far the hardest - 1302 km (809 miles) in just 8 days 6 hours time limit.  Totally self supported, sleeping in a Bivvy in the desert and the mountains and often having to push, walk and ride through the night.  Ive got to average 98 miles each and everyday without a break, carrying all my own equipment and ensuring my bike gets me to the end.   You will be able to 'follow' my progress via 'DotWatcher' - details to follow.

To be perfectly honest ... Im scared.

The Leeds Marathon won't be much easier 26.4 miles ... I have run a half before and will be doing the Sheffield Half again in March as training, and Ive even managed 21 miles once over the Peaks, but tbh, I could hardly walk at the end.   This will be tough, this will be another event that won't be pretty, just a case of getting to the end .... but hey . why not set myself a target .. so sub 4 hours it is. 

Ride London.  This is the easiest (although things can still go wrong), and if things go to plan its a fast blast around 100 miles of Closed Roads around London with about 25,000 other "bloody cyclists" :-)  !   My plan for this is just Ride it as fast as I can.

FUND RAISING

Last year I did my epic 1924.45 mile solo journey following my Dad's POW Train Route to Stalag IVB and raise £ 10,551.35 for Support Our Paras which I am so proud of. 

This year, Ive just myself set a target of just £ 2023.

If you are reading this, Im not actually asking for money, but I would like your support .... but if you feel the need to say 'well done Rapid' then chuck us a few quid.  Believe me, seeing the total rise, even by just another £ 'tenner' to 'fiver' really helps push me to to the end.

The gesture is for me  .... but the cash is so important to Action Medical Research. 

One thing is for sure, I'm determined to finish them all. 

I also like to point out that when I take on these Events .. the total 'cost' of competing them and all my costs is bourn by myself, so every penny of your donation goes to Action Medical Research.

Thank you

Rapid Rich.

ACTION MEDICAL RESEARCH:

Action Medical Research is the leading UK-wide charity saving and changing children’s lives through medical research. For 65 years we’ve helped pioneer ways to prevent disease and develop treatments benefiting millions of people. Our research has helped to beat polio in the UK, develop ultrasound, fight meningitis and prevent stillbirths. But we urgently need to develop more new treatments and cures for sick babies and children and we can’t do it without you.Join our fight for little lives.