Meet our members: the cyclist riding 900km to raise money for Cycling UK

Martin and four friends had originally planned to raise funds by commuting between Cycling UK’s London and Guildford offices. “However, that’s only about 40 kilometres,” Martin says, “so it didn’t really seem too much of a challenge.”

The solution? Go via Harrogate, the birthplace of the Cyclists’ Touring Club (now Cycling UK), stretching the journey to a formidable 900 kilometres – over a weekend.

The group’s average age is 64, proving that age is no barrier. Their plan is to “break the ride down into smaller sections and celebrate reaching the end of each section to make it feel more manageable.”

Alfred the great

Martin’s journey with Cycling UK began after discovering the King Alfred’s Way route. “We were really amazed by the scenery, the quality of the route finding and the whole experience,” he says. While he continues to generously support Cycling UK’s route development, this challenge has a broader purpose.

“For this particular challenge,” he says, “the aim is to help the charity to continue to campaign, support people who want to get into cycling, and to encourage more people to get out there and enjoy themselves on a bike, have a healthy lifestyle, and be more confident cycling”.

Riding through the night

His passion for cycling stems from both the physical and mental health benefits. “Sometimes when I’m not getting my cycling in on a regular basis, I can feel my tension levels rising. I can get out on the bike and clear my head,” he says.

He also values cycling’s unique social dynamic. “It’s one of those situations where you can be on your own but also be with other people at the same time.”

For Martin, long-distance riding offers a distinct experience. “There’s something quite amazing about riding through country lanes at two o’clock in the morning with no cars, no people, and the occasional swoop of an owl coming past your ear.”

Fundraising first steps

Martin’s advice for aspiring fundraisers is straightforward: “Pick something that is achievable for you. Don’t stretch yourself too far too soon.”

He also emphasises realistic fundraising goals. “You’re better off setting yourself a target to raise £200 and raising £210 than trying to raise £5,000 and raising £210.”

Through their fundraising efforts, Martin and his team are helping Cycling UK create happier, healthier and greener communities across the UK by encouraging more cycling.