18,000miles (ish). +40c. Wind. Rain. Sun. -15c. Mountains. Punctures. Mud. Sand. Built up cities. Desolate areas with no civilisation. More Punctures. Burning 5,000 calories a day. Even more punctures. You get the idea, this challenge is going to be one hell of a ride (pun intended).
I first thought of this idea after reading about someone equally as silly scaling the world in search of an incredible adventure, whilst trying to break the world record. A few years later the world cycle record stands at something unbelievably ridiculous, so I'm not trying to beat that. This journey isn't about speed, its about seeing the world but also helping others across the countries I visit. Still - it won't be easy! Im attempting to average around 100 miles every day I cycle - with some days seeing me push that to 200 miles. Coming from the flat fens, a hill to me is a pile of mud - so when I visit countries like New Zealand and Switzerland I'm in for a shock.
It was in 2005 when my brother was diagnosed with cancer, he was 10 and I was 8. Liam didn't want to feel sorry for himself, he wanted to help others and start fundraising. Liam defied all odds, being given just days left to live when he was 12 he fought a battle that lasted years. Sadly he passed away on the 30th June 2009
In his short life Liam was responsible for raising £340,000 directly and a further £7million by heading a campaign. Liam inspired me. In his final moments I made a promise to him, that I would live a brilliant life and try to help others whilst doing it. This challenge is ticking both of those boxes.
The money raised will go to The Liam Fairhurst Foundation (www.liamfairhurstfoundation.com) helping young people in the UK affected by cancer, disabilities and illnesses. I will also be fundraising for brilliant charities that help people in the countries I visit - including Free The Children (http://www.freethechildren.com) and Serious Fun Camps - Both incredible, incredible charities.
I'll be updating the blog section of my website before, during (when I find internet) and after the cycle. Feel free to send me questions, request for pictures of cool places or offer a helping hand! www.callumfairhurst.com. I set off in July, just after I've finished my last A-Level exams.
Companies/People that donate £500 to the cause can have their name or logo on my bike/shirt.
Whether its a pound of a thousand - I'm so grateful for your support!
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
