An Understatement: “Riding 5000 miles, solo, off-road across the USA is going to be hard”.
As I sit here preparing, laughing, joking and getting ready, its easy to think that what Ive self inflicted upon myself is going to be easy … just another Bike Ride.
But its not. Im under no illusions … this will be difficult for ANY cyclist. For me, this is going to push me mentally and physically, probably drive me to despair at times … it may even break me.
Im scared to be honest, Im worried about loneliness, fatigue, fitness and my ability. Im also concerned that my motivation will fail me in the dark times that WILL lay ahead over the 83 planned days starting on 1st August. Im worried about mechanical failures, leaving me stranded. Im worried about my health issues causing problems …
BUT …. I must remember …. I may be old, I may not be an elite athlete …. but I am ABLE.
Therefore, I see my Ride must be used for a greater good, and seeing as Im paying for every part of this journey myself, why not use it to make money for Charity ?
On 18th July I will be announcing the Charities that I have chosen to partner with.
I looked long and hard at various good causes, but realised that it is so easy to spread your support too thinly, and also realised that you cannot support every Charity you want to.
I can tell you that any donation will not only be going 100% to support these 2 great causes (and dont forget to add the free 25% Gift Aid) ….. but equally and arguably as importantly, the ‘ping’ of another donation received will also act as an incentive, a driving motivation and a huge filip to me – especially when I’m in one of the dark places that I know (from experience) a Ride like this will take me.
I dont do these Rides FOR Charity per se …. Im not one of these where a proportion of your donation is going on MY travel expenses or funding my enjoyment. I do these rides FOR ME … and I see this as a great way of giving something back. Therefore you need to know that I am paying for everything out of my own pocket …. So if you like what I’m attempting to do …. believe me, ANY donation – no matter how small – will push me on, lift my spirits and press with me on those pedals…..
… the fact your dontation will go to 2 Charities, whilst I suffer is the icing on my cake.
Thank you
Rapid
Partnership announcement 18th July
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