The challenge...
On 27th December at 6pm at the Herne Hill Velodrome, I will be cycling alongside 9 other lucky riders to complete the annual 'Rapha Festive 500' in one go! That's right in one go! That's a total of more than 1000 laps and 500km. This challenge is usually done over the festive period of 9 days but I hope to complete the challenge in under 24 hours total!
Why?
I'm taking on this challenge in memory of my nephew Grey who died three years ago this December when he was just three weeks old. Grey was born nine weeks early. But tragically in the days after he was born, my brother-in-law Michael and his wife Georgie were told the earth-shattering news that little Grey had a severe congenital brain abnormality and 21 days after he was born, Grey died in Georgie's arms.
Grey's parents have recently set up The Love Grey Foundation in his memory. The charity exists to help families affected by premature birth, baby loss, bereavement and early-years illness. They do so by sending love, in its many forms, to those that need it most; whether that's parents and families, hospitals and support groups or the little heroes fighting for their lives around the world.
Little Grey has touched so many of our lives – and thanks to your generosity he will continue to touch the lives of families across the UK.
I am also raising money for the Friends of Herne Hill Velodrome (FHHV). It's been my second home for the last 18 months! Not only has it given me a new love of track cycling, but my kids also get to enjoy all the incredible facilities most weekends. It's a huge part of our local community in Herne Hill and thanks to the FHHV it makes cycling accessible to everyone.
All donations go to FHHV and they will donate 50% of all the money I raise to Love Grey.
Give us a cheer!
If you are around south London on 27-28 December please come down and watch us attempt this challenge, your support will be greatly needed (as well as any snacks!)
This one's for you G-man x
