Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

The Charity

We are passionate about these three charities and their ability to support people in need not only with funds but with our efforts, understanding and ability. At the core is St John's Church, a Christian body that care about the community, those in need and important family/society values. The new multifaceted building is an investment to bring all, Christians and none Christians in to a safe, thoughtful, reflective and creative environment to not only  benefit Hartley Wintney, but also much wider (global) through associations and the numerous charities and events associated with Church. Which include the Matthew Elvidge Trust and St Michaels's Hospice who will also benefit directly from the sponsorship of this event.

The new building will be a catalyst to bring so much more good enhancing the positive community spirit it will create.

The Event

We have cycled in groups of 6-8 people over 4 days the 300 miles from North Belgium to Hampshire at speeds Bradley Wiggins can only dream of (dream-on! and, without getting our feet wet crossing the Channel (with the help of the Dover Ferry)!!!

We have had the chance to see our Twin town of Malle in Belgium and meet the locals who are also supporting in many ways. We have embarked on the first relatively 'flat' 150miles, the 2nd half through Kent, Sussex and Surrey did have many ups & 'Downs'! (Over 7,000 feet of them)

As with the previous Paris ride (3 years ago), a large self-supporting back-up team of volunteers did drive us on (Gary included now). This did ensure Jamie and the group met their individual/group goal, totally focused on the ride.

I can't begin to identify how much effort, time and support has been given not only on the event, but also through all the preparation from early March.

Our personal challenges

Jamie's: 

I did keep pace with the lead group and achieve good times as well complete the 300 miles in one piece avoiding the problems encountered by my dad in training. My general fitness carried me through having not had the ability to train with group over the past months.

Gary's:

Having trained hard from April to the end of June, then sustaining a few broken bones after a blow-out at speed, followed shortly by a car accident, I have had to refocus my efforts just to attending the event and hopefully support the riders, in particular Jamie.  The support I have received during this difficult period from fellow riders, friends, colleagues (at Siemens) and family has almost displaced the disappointment of not being able to ride. ALMOST!  

I hope my presence and one-armed photography will provide some benefit as well as proving - it's not the winning, it's the taking part.

 - PLEASE SPONSOR US!!

(As stated by others we are self-funding to ensure all donated funds go to the target charities.)

No matter how little, the more names, the more the impetus to avoid letting all those supporters down in addition to the 3 worthy charities.