On the 1st November, I will be on the start line of what is widely recognised as the world's toughest mountain bike race.

La Ruta de Los Conquistadores - translated as the Route of the Conquistadors follows their coast to coast path across Costa Rica.

Starting on the west coast, this three day race crosses desert, rain forest, volcanos, mountains, rivers and swamps. Temperatures from freezing to 40 degrees should just add to a true outpouring of mud, sweat and tears.

1st November sees over 3,500m climbing alone. With a 12 hour cut-off and 40% of riders failing the cut, it is make or break day. I've been training hard for this race since May with 5,000 miles under my belt and some great races.

Like Transrockies in 2007 and Cape Epic in 2010 I am once again raising money for LINC - Leukaemia and Intensive Chemoterapy facility in Cheltenham. Please take a look on their website to see the brilliant work that they do.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. So please dig deep and donate now.