They have greatly increased the profile of the work that CRY does and have organised numerous events that have raised large amounts of money for the charity over the years they have been involved.

 

So my adventure began at 6.30am on July 2^nd at Blackheath along with 119 other people. I had mixed feelings on that morning - excitement and fear.  I was excited about the adventure but worried if I’d be quick enough or be able to make all 285 miles that was ahead of me.

 

These worries were very quickly forgotten as I got chatting to other people and realised that we were all thinking the same. At 7.30am we were on our way, negotiating the traffic and people of London as we headed towards Dover.

 

My first challenge, in the form of a puncture, came after about an hour just as we were getting out of London. I guess it was to be expected but I was hoping not quite so soon in the day.

 

My experience of fixing punctures at the side of the road was limited and although there was an emergency number we could call to get help I decided to give it a go myself.

 

I quickly discovered that one of the advantages of a being a female was the fact that you had to do very little before a male cyclist would offer to help, looking helpless was definitely the best mode of action in puncture situations!! With my puncture fixed I was off again, this time realising that there were quite a lot of steep hills in Kent that I hadn’t had much opportunity to prepare for in my training in Essex.

 

Another puncture and 9 hours later we were all at Dover - I’ve never been so happy to see a 'welcome to Dover' sign before!

 

The next 3 days were full of highs and lows, both physically and mentally. Northern France is not flat contrary to popular belief, it is made up of some stunning scenery that you would probably miss if you were driving in the car.

 

Cycling also gave you opportunities to talk to people, with 120 of us all taking part for various reasons from all walks of life it was a privilege to be able to have some great conversations with so many interesting people.

 

Apart from the first day when we had a ferry to catch, there was no pressure or time restraints to when you got to your hotel. This allowed for everyone to go at their own pace so it really was accessible for all abilities to do. 

 

Those who were quicker tended to stop in cafes for a coffee or beer and made a leisurely day if it, whereas the ‘less quick’ people just took their time and got a very big cheer when they arrived in the evening.

 

Overall it was a fantastic challenge to do and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys cycling. You don’t have to be a fast cyclist - I wasn’t - you just have to be prepared for long days and lots of hills. It was exhausting and painful at times but after all it wouldn’t have been a challenge if it was easy!!

 

So far I’ve raised approximately £1800 which is all down to the generosity of so many friends, family, work colleagues and various other people - it’s far more than I expected I can’t express how pleased I am.

 

So if you are thinking about signing up to do this next year then go for it - you’ll have a fantastic time, just make sure you do the training!