Why I’m taking on the challenge

I’m not normally much of a fitness person, so 140km is definitely going to be a challenge for me! I’m going to be doing it through a mixture of walking and cycling, and hopefully getting friends, family and work colleagues involved along the way, whether that’s a weekend walk, a bike ride with friends or a lunchtime walk with colleagues.

I think keeping active is really important for both your physical and mental wellbeing, so I’m hoping this will give me a bit of motivation to get out and about, spend some time with people and generally be a bit more active.

Plus, with the colder, darker months on the way, I thought it would be good to get a bit of a fitness boost in before I inevitably want to hibernate on the sofa under a blanket!

140km sounds like a lot right now, especially for someone who isn't exactly known for being sporty, but I'm hoping I can get there one walk and bike ride at a time!

And knowing that I’m raising money for YMCA Chiltern Group while I do it makes the whole thing even more worthwhile.

If you can spare anything to donate, I’d really appreciate it. Every little bit will help support the amazing work YMCA Chiltern Group does across our local communities.

About YMCA Chiltern Group

YMCA Chiltern Group is a charity providing support to vulnerable people across Herts, Beds and Bucks, allowing everyone to belong, contribute and thrive!

From family work, supported housing, domestic abuse support, youth work, educational programmes, community hubs and mental health counselling, we support over 150,000 people every year...

2026 sees the charity celebrate its 140year anniversary, and this challenge links the as the crow flies distance between our key locations Watford, Bedford and High Wycombe (140km) with the vital work that can be completed by just £140

Did you know £140 could support

- a place on an overnight residential for 10 young people

- training for five mentors for young people

- provide a mobile phone and SIM for a person escaping domestic abuse

- provide a parent workshop to help young people navigate the digital world

Every donation really does make a difference!