Well here we all are safely back at Middle Wallop after a 16 hour return journey from John O'Groats in the van. Lands End to John O'Groats in 9 days done. All four completed all 900+ miles without a windge or moan and now have plenty of tales to tell. From an initial idea thought of back in May 2010 by Jamie and Neil, Alex coming on board in Nov 2010, the involvement of the two charities in Jan 2011, and Pete becoming involved in Mar 2011, the total amount raised has to be confirmed but expected to be about £13K. We also had a great time fulfilling a dream for Finn Cutting for Starlight. It has certainly been an experience that we will all remember for many years to come. Our only recommendation is that for those of you who are considering such an adventure, choose your team carefully, and train together beforehand. We were very lucky as that we bonded as a team from day one, and worked through any problems together. But there will be days when tiredness and bad weather or terrain are against you. Be prepared. We had a terrific team.
Many thanks go out to all those that have supported our fund raising efforts before the bike ride, and those we met and supported us during the ride itself. It could have been a simple honking of the car horn as encouragement, contributions to the charities, or the support given with accommodation on route, all were most welcome. Living and working 'behind the wire' in a military establishment, we sometimes forget the generosity and friendship of the general public. From the four cyclists our final and biggest thanks go to our support team of Mark and Chris from the MGS. They took paid leave to support our every need, and every time we needed help, they were there to help, no matter how ridiculous the request.
What now for the four of us. Jamie and Neil have completed a dream once only imagined. I suspect it will be the first of many. Pete has now found a new sport to become involved in (as cheaply as possible), and Alex can go back to his beloved girlfriend and eat all the pies.
Many thanks again for all your help and support.
Having completed our first challenge on 10 July 2011, Jamie and Neil have decided to continue fundraising for Help for Heroes & Starlight charities, by static cycling in various shops across Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset. Jamie is also training to cycle stage 19 of the 2011 Tour de France (Modane to Alpe d'Huez) in the future. We hope to raise £20,000
All donations no matter what the size, will be graciously received and further add to our enthusiasm to raise even more money for our chosen charities. Donations can be made securely by following the links below. Thank you for your interest in our challenge, please pop back from time to time, to see our progress.
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