Some of the Loughborough RAG Students having completed our July 2022 North Coast 500 Ride - Photo Credit: Unknown

University RAG Partnerships with Bike the UK for MS

Over the years, Bike the UK for MS has worked with many University RAG groups, having students from a number of different universities riding with us. Looking ahead to the 2024 Trips, we are excited to continue this fantastic partnership, working with RAG groups from Manchester, Nottingham, and Loughborough Universities. 

Some of the Loughborough RAG Students having completed our July 2022 North Coast 500 Ride – Photo Credit: Unknown

What is RAG?

But what is University RAG? RAG is an organisation through which students can discover and tackle amazing challenges whilst raising money for good causes. For example, the university RAG will often run RAG fairs with a number of challenges and causes represented. Ultimately, these fairs provide a place where students can take the opportunity to visit a number of different charity stands to discover the causes they could support and the adventures they could tackle. 

Manchester Get into Volunteering Fair

These RAG Fairs are a highlight of our off season, getting to travel out to different universities and meet some amazing people, looking to tackle the country by bike whilst raising money for Multiple Sclerosis Research and Awareness. This year we have been lucky enough to attend the Manchester Get into Volunteering fair, spending the day in the Student’s Union promoting our rides for 2024. It was great to see the interest across the board, from our 14 days of riding Land’s End to John O’Groats ride to our 3 day Sea to Sea trip.

The Bike the UK for MS stand at the Manchester RAG Fair – Photo Credit: Tommy Blake

Loughborough RAG

Looking ahead, we will be in Loughborough for the Loughborough University Unlock an Activity Night on the 9th October! This is a fantastic opportunity to share our new Loughborough RAG specific trip for 2024, that being the iconic London to Paris Route. After multiple years of students joining us on our NC500 trips, we can’t wait to tackle this new challenge with them! 

If any Loughborough students are interested please do come down and visit us. We’d love to share more information on the challenge with you, discuss bikes or even just say hello! 
If any university RAG groups or clubs are interested in partnering with us to have riders joining our trips, please do get in touch at info@biketheukforms.org, we’d love to hear from you.

Some of the amazing group from Robinson College, Cambridge who tackled our 2023 Sea to Sea trip – Photo Credit: Tommy Blake
Some tough climbs on the LĂ´n Las Cymru route.

Cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru: A Spectacular 4-Day Adventure through Wales

Bike the UK for MS ventured into the heart of Wales with the inaugural LĂ´n Las Cymru ride in May. This challenging yet rewarding route covers approximately 250 miles (400 km) from the picturesque town of Holyhead to the vibrant cities of Cardiff. The ride not only offered scenic landscapes, but also served a higher purpose, raising funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis (MS). Let’s dive into the unforgettable experience of the cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru in 2023 and explore the renowned route to inspire your next adventure.

The 2023 LĂ´n Las Cymru Ride

The 2023 team was composed of 11 exceptional Bike the UK for MS alumni, individuals who had previously embarked on trips such as Land’s End to John O’Groats, the North Coast 500 and the Sea to Sea with the organisation. Supported by 5 route leaders, the team consisted of diverse participants, from students and young professionals to parents, all united by a common goal – raising £1.50 per mile ridden to reach a collective target of £6000. Some team members had MS themselves or a direct connection to the disease, making the journey even more meaningful.

Lovely country lanes whilst cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru
Lovely country lanes whilst cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru

Throughout the 4-day ride, the team encountered challenges and triumphs. The route presented steep climbs in and around Eryi National Park (Snowdonia), but the splendid weather graced them with awe-inspiring views. The group navigated equally steep descents made challenging with rough roads in places. As they progressed through mid Wales and reached Brecon Beacons, the meandering country lanes offered tranquil surroundings and a taste of Wales’ natural beauty. The final day culminated with a breathtaking ride (both physically and metaphorically) from Talybont Reservoir to Pontsticill Reservoir, followed by a jubilant finish at Cardiff Bay, just outside the Wales Millennium Centre.

The 2024 team cycling to the finish line 

The LĂ´n Las Cymru Route

Length and Direction

Spanning 250 miles (400 km), the LĂ´n Las Cymru route runs between Holyhead and either Cardiff or Chepstow. For an optimal journey home with better train options, our preferred direction is from north to south, starting in Holyhead and finishing in Cardiff. This approach also places the challenging climbs early on, with the toughest ascent between Porthmadog and Llanidloes on Day 2. However, when finishing in Cardiff be prepared for slow-going bike paths on busy weekends for the final stretch along the River Taff.

Recommended Duration

While LĂ´n Las Cymru can be completed in a single day for those seeking an intense challenge, a 4 to 5-day adventure allows riders to savour the stunning surroundings and take on the climbs at a steady pace.

Accommodation and Food Options

Cyclists have various accommodation choices, including hotels, B&Bs, hostels, and campsites. Numerous towns along the route provide ample opportunities to replenish food and water supplies. While the route offers regular access to amenities, carrying plenty of snacks and planning for unexpected shop closures is important. Alternatively, van supported trips are a good option for a stress free ride.

We were fortunate to have some incredible generous hosts along the route including Canolfan Gymunedol Morlo (Gwelfor Community Centre), Porthmadog Football Club, Llanidloes Rugby Club and Kensington Baptist Church. Being hosted allows us to keep our costs to minimum and put more funds towards MS projects.

Following the Sustrans Route 8 signs on LĂ´n Las Cymru
Following the Sustrans Route 8 signs
Amazing views on route for the riders and support crew on LĂ´n Las Cymru
Amazing views on route for the riders and support crew

Following the LĂ´n Las Cymru

The official LĂ´n Las Cymru route map is designed by Sustrans, primarily following Route 8, but occasionally connecting with Routes 4 and 5. The route is well signposted, although riders should stay alert for obscured signs. A reliable bike computer or following along on Strava can enhance the navigation experience.

Best Time to Cycle LĂ´n Las Cymru

To avoid the unpredictable Welsh weather, summer months (June to August) are recommended for cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru. Despite increased traffic during the holiday season, the majority of the route is on quiet back lanes and bike paths, minimising risks.

Planning Resources

Sustrans offers a route map for purchase. We have bespoke LĂ´n Las Cymru maps with day-by-day, 1-page maps with turn-by-turn directions available upon request too. Find the route and download the LĂ´n Las Cymru GPX files from our Strava:

  • Day 1 – Holyhead to Porthmadog 68.5 miles and 3,658ft of climbing
  • Day 2 – Porthmadog to LLanidloes 71 miles and 7,371ft of climbing
  • Day 3 – Llanidloes to Brecon 63.5 miles and 4,700ft of climbing
  • Day 4 – Brecon to Cardiff 52 miles and 2,461ft of climbing
  • Full LĂ´n Las Cymru Route Map

A Challenging Yet Rewarding Experience

Climbing Challenges

LĂ´n Las Cymru features challenging climbs, particularly on Day 2 between Porthmadog and Llanidloes. Descents may present road surfaces with potholes, gravel, and moss, requiring cautious riding. Consider using wider and sturdier tires for added protection against flats.

All Abilities Welcome

While the route demands solid fitness and preparation, Lôn Las Cymru is designed to be achievable for riders of all abilities. A base level of fitness is essential, but it’s still an excellent option even for first-time multi-day bike adventurers. Those who prefer additional support can explore guided and supported ride options too.

All smiles after cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru
Yet more smiles at the end of cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru

Highlights to Treasure

Cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru rewards riders with unparalleled vistas and memorable stops along the way. From the natural beauty of Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons to the warmth of Welsh communities, the route offers an unforgettable experience.

Supporting Local Communities

We encourages participants to respect and engage with the towns along the route. Fostering connections and appreciation for the local communities is vital to maintain great cycling routes like LĂ´n Las Cymru.

We had the privilege of meeting the Gwynedd/Ynys Mon Group of the MS Society at the Fron Goch Garden Centre in Caernarfon. The group, run by the volunteers, Susannah Robinson, and her team, covers a wide area of North Wales.

Conclusions on cycling LĂ´n Las Cymru

LĂ´n Las Cymru with Bike the UK for MS is an incredible 4-day cycling adventure through the heart of Wales, offering not only spectacular landscapes, but also an opportunity to support those living with MS. The 2023 ride was a resounding success, creating lasting memories for the team and providing essential funds for those living with MS.

Join the LĂ´n Las Cymru adventure in 2024! Experience camaraderie, breathtaking views, and the fulfilment of supporting an great cause. Register today to become part of the Bike the UK for MS family. Embark on a journey that will leave a lasting impact!

[Author’s note: Please note that the information provided is based on the 2023 ride and may be subject to updates in subsequent years.]
Felix Young riding in 2014 with Bike the UK for MS

Meet Felix Young, the New Bike the UK for MS Programme Manager

We are thrilled to introduce you to Felix Young, the new Programme Manager for Bike the UK for MS. Felix is an avid cyclist with an extensive background in coaching and event organisation. He has been a part of the Bike the UK for MS community since its inception in 2014 and has experienced it from all angles – as a rider, a Route Leader, and a Board Trustee.

Felix shares his personal Bike the UK for MS story, including the memories, friendships, and experiences that have had a lasting impact on his life. He also explains the charity’s purpose and how it has evolved over the years, highlighting the shared sense of excitement, adventure, and camaraderie that exists throughout the MS community.

The Many Hats of Felix Young: Coaching, Event Organisation, and Cycleball

Hello everyone, allow me to re-introduce myself! I am incredibly excited to have taken up the role as the Bike the UK for MS UK Programme Manager and am looking forward to a new chapter in my Bike the UK for MS story. Working alongside James, Ella and the rest of the Bike the UK for MS team I can’t wait to build on the tremendous projects running in order to make this year’s trips the best yet and to do even more to support those with MS through the work of the charity.

My Bike the UK for MS story began all the way back on the first ever John O’ Groats to Land’s End trip in 2014 where I was a rider. The two weeks spent on the trip have had an everlasting impact with memories, friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime. The sense of excitement, adventure and camaraderie on that first trip have become part of the DNA of the charity and continues to exist through all of the rides and riders who have been part of the last nine years.

Felix Young has been running events for the likes of British Cycling over recent years.
Felix Young riding on John O'Groats to Land's End in 2014

Finding Purpose and Meaning Through Bike the UK for MS

The purpose of the charity was clear for all to see, even at the very beginning, with the event held alongside the Bath branch of the MS Society. There are lots of personal benefits to take away from being part of a trip like those on Bike the UK for MS, but sharing the ride and riding for those we meet at the MS Society brings a whole new level of meaning and drive. They truly felt part of our adventure and it was with pride and thrill that we turned the pedals as our part to play in their lives.

Of course, after such a great first time, I had to come back for more and so, despite being unable to join for a full trip, I was back the following year to ride a segment of the End to End ride: the final three days from Bath down to Land’s End. It was a great way to get another taste of that Bike the UK for MS goodness.

Felix Young in Land's End having completed John O'Groats to Land's End in 2014
Felix with his son. He's been getting him into riding from a young age!

Bike the UK for MS from a different perspective: Behind the scenes and on the board

I have also experienced Bike the UK for MS from the other side of the organisation. Having been a rider in those first two years, I was back for the third trip in 2016, this time behind the wheel of the support van as a Route Leader. Bike the UK for MS is a real community with the shared experience across the different trips from year to year; it felt amazing to be able to not only benefit from the hard work of the support teams as a rider, but also to help others benefit and experience what it was that I loved about the trips. You get to see and feel it all again through those who you are supporting.

I have also been a member of the board of trustees as James continued to nurture and develop the scope of the charity: a valuable insight into the mechanics of the organisation that goes on to facilitate the delivery on the road. It is a real honour to be part of a charity that is so keen to innovate, explore and push the boundaries of what is possible to be achieved.

Felix taking a dip in a Scottish loch.
Felix Riding during JOGLE in 2014

Professional Experience in Cycling and Expertise in Cycleball

The rest of my working life has been in cycling across both coaching and event organisation. I was a staff member at British Cycling working as an events officer and oversaw the delivery of a wide range of events from Paracycling National Championships and BMX races through to sportives and cyclocross leagues. I am also the head coach of Avid Sport, a cycling team for young men and women based in the Bath and Bristol area. Over the years I have supported and organised cycling trips both in the UK and abroad and my life as a cyclist started with a charity bike ride at school from London to Paris.

Finally, a left-field fact about me: I am the UK’s leading expert (self-proclaimed but then it is a small field!) in Cycleball and took the first ever British team to the World Championships in 2022.

Join us in welcoming Felix to the Bike the UK for MS team with a message below.

Zwift Training for MS - Tuesday Evenings at 7pm - Bike the UK for MS

Zwift Training for MS Rides

Starting January 31st, our weekly virtual Zwift training rides are back for everyone! Whether on Zwift, keen for a social chat on Zoom or need some added motivation for a home workout, we’ve got you covered.

Join Bike the UK for MS founder, James, on Tuesday evenings at 7pm on Zoom to chat all things training, Bike the UK for MS and Zwift training for MS. Joining instructions below.

Whether you’re riding a 2023 Bike the UK for MS adventure, interested in a summer ride for MS or one of our star alumni, get involved! It’s an opportunity to meet fellow team members, ask any questions you may have and kickstart your winter training.

Zwift Training ride - Bike the UK for MS

How to join the Zwift Training for MS

ZWIFT Riders:

1. Follow ‘Bike the UK for MS’ on the Zwift Companion app or here
2. Look out for a meetup request to follow
3. Join Zwift ready to ride at 7pm on Tuesday

Zoom:

Join the zoom call following this link.

Everyone is welcome to join the Zoom call even if you aren’t on Zwift or not riding!

IMG_0935

2022 Year in Review

With the depths of winter creeping ever nearer, it feels like a good time to cast our minds back to the past summer season and reflect on what has been another extraordinary year for Bike the UK for MS.

IMG-6320

Daniel Burns

Sum up your memories about the trip.

I had a great two weeks away meeting new people who were there for the same reason. It was a great challenge everyone took it onboard and we all got there in the end. I loved it that much I am now signed up for Sea to Sea in August 2020, just need to work on my singing skills now!!

What’s your favourite memory from your trip?

My pedal coming off my bike as I was standing in cow poo. Also, the karaoke at the rest stops – we should have recorded that and sold it!

______________________

What is your age?

33

What made you want to ride your bike across the country?

To see places, meet new people and help raise funds towards MS charities.

Where do you live?

Dumbarton, Scotland

What routes/years did you ride with Bike the UK for MS?

JOGLE 2019

Do you have a connection to Multiple Sclerosis?

Yes, my mum has MS

_________________________

Pre-trip

How much training did you do for your trip?

Maybe 50 miles a week on the bike on average but I also run which helped.

What was your cycling experience before signing up?

I just cycled for enjoyment and commuting to work.

Where did you find the most success fundraising?

Word of mouth as I don’t use social media.

Embarking on any big trip can be intimidating. What was your biggest pre-trip worry?

My biggest pre-trip worry was being the only Scottish person if anyone was going to understand me!

How did you travel to and from the trip?

I got the train to Penzance and then a taxi to Land’s End, then I got a lift by car back from John O’Groats.

_________________________

Gear

What’s one thing you brought that you couldn’t have lived without?

Money for a beer at the end of the day.

What’s one thing you brought that you wish you hadn’t?

A gas stove as it took up so much space and I only used it once.

Is there anything you spent a bit more money on that you were glad you did?

My shorts as they made the journey more comfortable.

How much casual clothes (t-shirts, shorts, etc) did you bring?

Jeans, tracksuit bottoms, hoody, jacket and 2 T-shirts.

How many pairs of cycling shorts/bibs did you bring?

4

What type of camping gear did you bring?

Tent, roll matt, stove, pots and pans.

_________________________

Food

What was your favourite van snack?

Ote caramel flapjack

How often would you go out to eat?

Most nights apart from 1 or 2.

What did you put in your day cubby (in the rest stop van)?

Peanut butter, bananas, Pringles, cereal bars/flapjacks

_________________________

On-the-bike

Did you prefer to ride alone or in a group?

Group.

What would you keep in your bike jersey pockets?

Banana and sun cream.

Did you use a rack/saddle bag/handlebar bag?

No

What type of tyres did you ride?

Standard road tyres.

Did you use a bike computer? What was your normal pace?

No, just Strava and Garmin watch; 13/14 mph.

How long did it take to learn to read the maps?

I’m still learning.

Riding on a flat terrain with a headwind, or climbing a mountain pass for miles. Which do you prefer?

Definitely a mountain pass for miles!

Would you rather be riding through cold rain or extreme heat?

Extreme heat.

What was the most physically challenging segment for you?

The start of the day from Carlisle to Carluke.

_________________________

Routine

Were you an early riser, or rolling out of camp late?

Early riser.

When you got to camp, the first thing you did was….

Found the nearest pub.

How often would you do laundry?

Every couple of days but only got a proper laundrette once.

It’s the evening and you’re out of your bike clothes, fed, and your tent is pitched. What are you doing to pass the time until you fell asleep?

Just go for a wonder about to see what’s happening, sort my stuff for the next day and go for a pint.

On the rest day, did you prefer to go out and see what the town has to offer, or did you hang out, rest up, and relax?

Go out and see the town.

_________________________

Reflecting

Do you keep in touch with many of your teammates?

Yes now and again.

What was your favourite MS group meet up?

Would have to be biased and say the Dumbarton group.

Do you feel like you are more aware of the impact that MS has on the lives of those affected by it?

100%

What was your biggest takeaway from the trip?

Live life to the max, you never know what’s round the corner, also when you think you’re having a tough day just think about the people we raised the money for – they’re having it 10 times as hard.

 

Joanna Goodhead

Sum up your memories about the trip.

I have had so many great memories from the both when I did the trip and when I route led it a year after, from laughs about each other’s blunders to seeing some of the best scenery in the UK.

Bike the UK for MS offers riders such an amazing experience which I will never forget and a taste of how to explore places – I have ridden so much more since the trip to places that I never thought I would. Its link with Bike the US for MS means that once you’ve done this trip you are more likely to go and do one of the America trips and continue to meet new people, make new friends and learn more about MS.

The adventure of a lifetime!!

What’s your favourite memory from your trip?

Honestly too many – I had so many laughs and memories to hold from it.

But– riding up Glencoe in Scotland as a group of 4 and seeing the view at the top. Or riding along Loch Ness in beautiful blue skies.

______________________

What is your age?

20 (I was 19 when I did the trip).

What made you want to ride your bike across the country?  

I love riding my bike and exploring new places I’d never been. This trip was a perfect way to see the country and make awesome new friends for life along the way!

Where do you live?

Derby

What is your profession?

Student at University of Bath

What routes/years did you ride with Bike the UK for MS?  

2017 – JOGLE

2018 – JOGLE Route Leader

2021 – Sea to Sea

Do you have a connection to Multiple Sclerosis?

No

_________________________

Pre-trip

How much training did you do for your trip?

I continued with my normal cycling and triathlon training and that was enough. Towards the end of May and June, I did up the distance and time on my rides to get use to being in the saddle for a long time (from around 40k to 80k). 

Also practiced eating whilst riding and seeing what was easiest to get out of pockets and sat well in the stomach – Bananas and Nature valley granola bars were my pick!

What was your cycling experience before signing up?

I was a regular triathlete and cyclist who trained around 12 hours a week for triathlon. Around 6 hours of that that was cycling.

Where did you find the most success fundraising?

Back home – I live near my old school so went and pitched it there, did a cake sale, raffle for the kids and the teachers were very generous – most people can’t imagine spending one day in the saddle let along 14 so what you are doing is very admirable!

Tournaments – are very good too, you can include, pictures in the run up, live “broadcast” on Facebook during and there’s always some sort of follow up post too so plenty of opportunity to advertise!

What was your biggest challenge while fundraising, or something that didn’t work as well as you thought it might?

I didn’t realise how much £1000 was, so I had to do 3 big fundraisers along with individual sponsorship rather than 1 which I thought I might have to have done.

Embarking on any big trip can be intimidating. What was your biggest pre-trip worry?

I am quite a quiet and shy person when I am around people I do not know very well, so my big worry was not getting on with anyone or liking me and having to do the whole trip by myself and be alone each night. However this was not the case and James and the other route leaders were super friendly and I soon got to know the other riders (who I am still friends with now a year and a half on).

How did you travel to and from the trip?

Travelled up to Scotland by car with my parents, who had a weeks holiday up there afterwards.

When I route led the following year, I got the sleeper train from London Eustan to Edingbrough which was good.

We have a house in Cornwall so getting the train from Penzance to my house was dead easy. There are taxi’s that take you from Lands end to Penzance and you can usually group together with others on the trip to make it cheaper. Most will get a train from Penzance.

_________________________

Gear

Did you buy a bike for the trip, or was it a bike you already had?

I already had a bike.

What is something you wish you had brought which you didn’t?

Fingerless gloves – to stop blisters occurring.

What’s one thing you brought that you couldn’t have lived without?

Bike computer (or a simple GPS speed and distance tracker) so you could keep an eye on the distance you’d done and when the main turns were on the map. 

Cooker/Stove – as a student I was on a tighter budget so cooking in rather than eating out was much more handy.

What’s one thing you brought that you wish you hadn’t?

Too many home clothes – a pair of jeans/easy clothes when you finish each day is fine, you stop caring about what you wear after a while and just want the easiest things to slip into!

Is there anything you spent a bit more money on that you were glad you did?

Most money was spent on food, I didn’t buy much else through the whole trip.

How much casual clothes (t-shirts, shorts, etc) did you bring?

Too many – I think a pair jeans and leggings, sports leggings, sport shorts and trackies, around 4 tops (which was fine), light fleece, 2 running tops (I ran on the trip some evenings), 2 hoodies (but only wore the Bike the UK for MS one), running trainers, normal shoes, flipflops.

How many pairs of cycling shorts/bibs did you bring?

3 – would have taken more and less off the bike clothing if I did it again.

What type of camping gear did you bring? 

Good waterproof tent, warm 4 season sleeping bag, sleeping mat, camping stove, gas, pot to put on the stove, camping mug, spork.

_________________________

Food

What was your favourite van snack?

Wraps and marmite!

How often would you go out to eat?

Twice (or maybe 3 times).

Would you cook at camp often? If so, what was your favourite recipe?

Yes – rice and a shop bought source and chicken or deli beef.

What did you put in your day cubby (in the rest stop van)?

Snacks and most of my meal food was there too, fleece.

_________________________

On-the-bike

Did you prefer to ride alone or in a group?

Group

What would you keep in your bike jersey pockets?

One snack bar or banana, light waterproof jacket, map phone and a bit of money.

Did you use a rack/saddle bag/handlebar bag?

Yes – saddle bag.

What type of tyres did you ride?

Standard road tyres.

Did you use a bike computer? What was your normal pace?

Yes, average around 22/23km per hour.

How long did it take to learn to read the maps?

Around 3 days – when you think about it, they are dead easy provided you have it orientated right!

Riding on a flat terrain with a headwind, or climbing a mountain pass for miles. Which do you prefer?

Climbing a mountain pass for miles any day!

Would you rather be riding through cold rain or extreme heat?

Extreme heat.

What was the most physically challenging segment for you?

Tavistock to Liskeard in Cornwall having already climbed over Dartmoor earlier in the day.

_________________________

Routine

Were you an early riser, or rolling out of camp late?

Early riser.

When you got to camp, the first thing you did was….

Got off the bike and sat down.

How often would you do laundry?

Every 2 nights – whenever it wasn’t too expensive. But also bulked washed with other riders to make cheaper and share the costs. 

It’s the evening and you’re out of your bike clothes, fed, and your tent is pitched. What are you doing to pass the time until you fell asleep?

See what the other riders are doing, go to a nearby pub and chat, play cards, read a book in your tent if it’s later in the evening, explore the villages with riders.

On the rest day, did you prefer to go out and see what the town has to offer, or did you hang out, rest up, and relax?

Go out and see the town was a form of relaxation – I knew Bath so knew it has a lot to offer so just enjoyed being there. My parents also came down to see me and we went out for a meal.

Did you keep a journal or blog during the trip?

Yes but only basic – on the notes app on my phone to remind me of the day so I could make a full write up and scrapbook post trip.

_________________________

Reflecting

Do you keep in touch with many of your teammates?

Yes!!

What was your favourite MS group meet up?

The one near Inverness.

Do you feel like you are more aware of the impact that MS has on the lives of those affected by it?

Yes – I honestly had no awareness before the trip, I now know the different impacts and met some amazing people through it.

What was your biggest takeaway from the trip?

Confidence boost – I am much more confident in groups I do not know now which has helped my hugely through my time at uni.

IMG_5479

Sara Dobbs

Sum up your memories about the trip.

It’s tough to limit my memories to just a few sentences, but the JOGLE 2018 trip exceeded my expectations at every turn. The route was beautiful: challenging at times but incredibly scenic, and I was pleasantly surprised by the road conditions. Bike the UK for MS is a well-organised group, and we had the right balance of hard work/accomplishing our goals and fun! We had a rider on our team that has MS, and her tenacity and spirit was an excellent example for all of us. I hope to do another Bike the UK for MS ride (LEJOG?) sometime in the future.

What’s your favourite memory from your trip?

Cycling with our friends Jim & Jenni around Loch Ness and Ian in the Lake District and Kirkstone Pass.

______________________

What is your age?

56

What made you want to ride your bike across the country?

My husband and I enjoy pedalling for a purpose and having a reason to ride. The route sounded intriguing, and the length of he trip was just right.

Where do you live?

Houston, Texas USA

What is your profession?

Intercultural Consultant at Chevron

What routes/years did you ride with Bike the UK for MS?

2022 – North Coast 500

2018 – JOGLE – Bike the UK for MS

2018 – 1 week Northern Tier – Bike the US for MS

2016 – 10 days Southern Tier – Bike the US for MS

2016 – PAC Coast – Bike the US for MS

Do you have a connection to Multiple Sclerosis?

Friends & Co-Workers

_________________________

Pre-trip

How much training did you do for your trip?

The training I did was adequate. It also helped to cross-train (running &swimming).

What was your cycling experience before signing up?

A few multi-week cycling trips and spin classes.

Where did you find the most success fundraising?

Our most successful fundraising came from friends & family members–especially those with a connection to MS– and Corporate Matching Funds.

What was your biggest challenge while fundraising, or something that didn’t work as well as you thought it might?

The delay in receiving Matching Funds was a source of frustration and our biggest challenge.

Embarking on any big trip can be intimidating. What was your biggest pre-trip worry?

My biggest pre-trip worry was that there might be a delay in our bike arriving or damage to it (flight from US to UK).

How did you travel to and from the trip?

We flew. I visited friends in the UK ahead of time, then took a train to Inverness, and Private Transport to the start at John O’Groats.

_________________________

Gear

Did you buy a bike for the trip, or was it a bike you already had?

We used the tandem bike we already had.

What is something you wish you had brought which you didn’t?

A better phone for communication. I used a cheap track phone that received texts and could be used for emergencies, but I wish I had brought a smart phone or paid more on my phone plan for international calls and data.

What’s one thing you brought that you couldn’t have lived without?

It was great to have a Garmin for navigation, but also a comfortable, inflatable mattress.

What’s one thing you brought that you wish you hadn’t?

A cooking kit. Most of what we needed (pots, pans, utensils) was available at the churches and community centers where we staying at.

Is there anything you spent a bit more money on that you were glad you did?

A Garmin and good rain gear.

How much casual clothes (t-shirts, shorts, etc) did you bring?

I packed fairly light and pretty much stuck to the suggested number of items.

How many pairs of cycling shorts/bibs did you bring?

I bought three pairs of cycling shorts and one pair of cycling capris

What type of camping gear did you bring?

We brought a two-person tent, inflatable air mattresses, and light weight sleeping bags.

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Food

What was your favourite van snack?

Crackers and jelly babies.

How often would you go out to eat?

Every third night or so.

Would you cook at camp often? If so, what was your favourite recipe?

We cooked at the churches and community centres where we staying at. Our favourite meal was usually some type of soup/chili with rice.

What did you put in your day cubby (in the rest stop van)?

Snacks, extra clothing (jacket, gloves).

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On-the-bike

Did you prefer to ride alone or in a group?

We usually rode the tandem by ourselves.

What would you keep in your bike jersey pockets?

I kept my phone, map, granola bar, sunglasses and sunscreen in my jersey pockets.

Did you use a rack/saddle bag/handlebar bag?

We had a rear saddle bag, and a map holder/handlebar bag.

What type of tyres did you ride?

Not sure–have used gator skins on other rides.

Did you use a bike computer? What was your normal pace?

Yes, a Garmin. Approximately 18 mph.

How long did it take to learn to read the maps?

Not long – I had used them on a previous MS rides. I used to teach map reading skills.

Riding on a flat terrain with a headwind, or climbing a mountain pass for miles. Which do you prefer?

Mountain pass every time!!

Would you rather be riding through cold rain or extreme heat?

Probably the cold rain.

What was the most physically challenging segment for you?

For me, Dartmoor was the most physically challenging because of the rain & cool temperatures.

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Routine

Were you an early riser, or rolling out of camp late?

A fairly early riser.

When you got to camp, the first thing you did was….

First thing was to read the white board! Next was to find a shower.

How often would you do laundry?

Approximately every 3-4 days.

It’s the evening and you’re out of your bike clothes, fed, and your tent is pitched. What are you doing to pass the time until you fell asleep?

Checking e-mails and social media.

On the rest day, did you prefer to go out and see what the town has to offer, or did you hang out, rest up, and relax?

A little of both.

Did you keep a journal or blog during the trip?

Not on this trip.

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Reflecting

Do you keep in touch with many of your teammates?

Yes, through social media.

What was your favourite MS group meet up?

It’s difficult to choose as they were all memorable, but I would say the MS Group in Bath and riding together on the adapted bikes.

Do you feel like you are more aware of the impact that MS has on the lives of those affected by it?

I am definitely more aware of the impact of MS since participating in the Bike the UK for MS.

What was your biggest takeaway from the trip?

My biggest take away from the trip was the enjoyment of meeting up with MS Society Groups along the way. I was truly inspired by those facing the challenges of MS and the way individuals who helped with their care. It was the most connected to the designated charity that I have ever felt on a bike ride.