Harrogate outdoor enthusiast James Gaston, 42, recently joined a team from Tate & Lyle which participated in a 230 mile 3 day London to Paris Bike Ride for Grocery Aid. In total 75 cyclists took on the challenge which raised a grand total of £115,000.
The first day saw the riders climb more than 1,200m and cycle 70 miles through the North and South Downs countryside arriving in Portsmouth to catch the overnight ferry into Caen. Cyclists set off on Day 2 from the village of Bernay, cycling 63 miles through some stunning French, but rather wet countryside. The final day was the longest, involving a 100 mile stretch to the finish. The total ascent was over 4000 metres – the equivalent of 3 Ben Nevis, 3.5 Mount Snowdon’s or 1 Mount Fuji with the London Shard on top!
James said:
I was delighted to have the opportunity to participate in the challenge again and support GroceryAid. We were up against the elements, battling against wind and rain but made the final destination – The Eiffel Tower in high spirits, despite the weather. Next year the London to Paris Cycle Challenge will take place on 18th to 21st September 2014. It’s a fantastic challenge and I highly recommend the experience.
This is the second time James has completed the route, this first being in September 2012, once again with a team from Tate & Lyle. James enjoys a challenge, for a living he runs Log Heights which are based at Ripley Castle, they provide corporate team building activities such as tree top ropes activities, along with other outdoor challenges such as rafting and kayaking.
GroceryAid help people all over the UK who have worked, or are working, in all areas of the grocery industry and have now found that they need some extra support to get byAnyone interested in taking part should contact events@groceryaid.org.uk or call 01252 875925.
