On the 8th July I took part in the Hiscox Tourmalet Challenge which is stage 8 of the Tour de France the day before the professionals. The route is a punishing ride which includes 4 climbs starting with the gruelling Col du Tourmalet! Having only taken up cycling last year this was an amazing achievement for me and one which I will remember for the rest of my life. Of the 42 riders who took part 30% didn't complete the challenge and if you look at the gradients involved you can see why. The first climb was 2115m alone and the total climb over the 92 miles was approx. 4500m. I completed the challenge in 8hrs 26 minutes total cycling time burning off over 5000 calories in 35 degree heat! I couldn't miss the opportunity to raise money for charity and could think of no better cause than to raise money for Acorns children's hospice who do such great work for babies, children and young people up to the age of 18 with life limiting or life threatening conditions.

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