The Bobby Challenge

In the early hours of 25th September last year, my best mate Robert Anthony Wane — Bobby — passed away in his sleep aged just 35.

We later learned he had an undiagnosed genetic heart condition, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, which had caused an enlarged heart. None of us knew. There were no warnings. He was simply taken from us. If it had been properly diagnosed when signs first appeared back in 2010, it may have helped prevent his death.

Bobby was the type of person who was always there for everyone. Loyal, dependable, and the one you could always rely on when it mattered most. A devoted husband and an incredible dad, his world revolved around his wife and children, and they were his greatest pride.

In his memory, I’m taking on The Bobby Challenge.

In September, I will climb the three highest mountains in the UK — Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon — while cycling the full distance between them, before finishing at Preston North End on the 25th September, the anniversary of his passing.

The following day we will hold a fundraiser at Ribby Hall, where we said goodbye to him.

This challenge is in support of Heartbeat, a charity close to us, with its base at Preston North End — Bobby’s favourite football club.

The aim is to raise £35,000 to support their life-saving work, raise awareness of hidden heart conditions that can take people without warning, and honour the family he loved so much.

This is just the beginning.

Long term, we hope to grow The Bobby Challenge into something that supports families and children who lose loved ones suddenly to undiagnosed heart conditions — providing help, experiences, and support during the hardest times.

But right now, this first challenge is for Bobby.

Every mile ridden.

Every step climbed.

Every pound raised.

For a man who was always there for everyone.

Carl