A friendship which started at University in 1999, is still going strong 26 years later! The fun and frolics of spending 4 years together in Manchester has led to a life long friendship.

One of the lads in the group, Sean Spencer has sadly developed muscular dystrophy, which is a progressive condition which weakens specific muscles within his body.

As a result, me and 3 of the boys have decided to test ourselves with a gruelling 7/9 hour challenge, to help raise money for the condition.

Pedal, Paddle, Peak takes place in the Lake District on Saturday 5th July, the epic triple adventure challenge which will see the boys cycle, canoe and hike to the summit of Helvellyn all in one day.

Pedal

Starting from the event hub in Glenridding, the team will take on this stunning 34km route for the cycle phase, passing the famous Aira Force Waterfall, skirt the southern edge of Little Mell Fell and then travel down the entire length of the Western Shore of Ullswater Lake, ready to transition for the next phase.

Paddle

From Glenridding Sailing Centre, the legs will be given a rest on this 3km course on the pristine waters of Ullswater Lake. Teams of four will use two connected open canoes rafted together for stability. It’s all about teamwork on this phase!

Peak

A quick change into hiking gear, ready to climb England’s third highest peak, the magnificent Helvellyn. The climb to the summit is via the White Side and Lower Man of the mountain, tackling a 17km round trip on a marshalled and sign posted route.

This Gruelling challenge will raise money for Sean Spencer from Rawtenstall in Lancashire who was 30 years old when he noticed signs of weakness in his legs – which he found particularly worrying as he had such a passion for sporting activities. Tests lead to a diagnosis of limb girdle muscular dystrophy.

After initially finding his diagnosis difficult to process and sticking his head in the sand, over time Sean began to accept his condition.

As a result, Sean and other members of the Spencer family decided it would be a fitting tribute to set up a Family Fund to help raise funds into research for the condition.

All donations, big or small, are greatly appreciated. Thank you!