Sam - JRF Corsica Cycle Challenge

I'm not a fan of cycling and I'm very sketchy on a bike. So how did I end up signing up to cycle 400+km and climb 5,000m across Sardinia and Corsica over three days? Not surprisingly, it was after several beverages. My lovely friend Cara mentioned the challenge at the JRF Burn Nights event and asked if I'd be interested, and instead of politely declining like a sensible person, I said: "yes, absolutely, sign me up" (thinking about Aperols and pasta in the sun, not cycling).

While I am not great at cycling, I am good at keeping my word. So now I'm squeezing myself into the lycra I once mocked, learning to ride a bike properly, and training for the hardest physical thing I've ever attempted.

I'm doing this one in memory of my Uncle Johnny - a serious cyclist, who thought nothing of hopping on his bike and riding across mountains, just for fun. I was in total awe of his fitness and mindset, usually while eating a crumpet or having a sneaky cigarette/vino, and thinking "rather him than me." But now he's no longer with us and so greatly missed, I want to channel his amazing energy into doing something that makes a difference.

Which brings me to the cause - the Jason Robinson Foundation, an amazing, grassroots UK charity set up by rugby legend Jason Robinson to help young people overcome barriers to learning, opportunity, and employment through the power of sport. It's a cause close to my heart, and one that makes real, positive change - kids who play sport score 40% higher in exams, and are 15% more likely to go to university - and they may even go on and represent their country like Jason 🏉 and Johnny 🏎️🏁 both did. This trip is entirely self-funded, so ALL the money raised will help change young people's lives for the better.

So: the countdown is on - three days, two islands, a lot of climbing and sweat and tears - any support is gratefully received.

Thank you for reading and for being part of this ridiculous yet wonderful challenge.

PS big thanks to my step Granny Deirdre for teaching me to ride a bike a little later in life than most, when she came into my life - one of my best memories ❤️

PPS thanks to Togo Keynes for taking me to the next stage of Endurance Road biking in only a few weeks  - legend!

Lastly, and most importantly - If I turn into a shouty, Strava-obsessed cyclist, please stage an intervention.