Cyclist takes on Pan Celtic Race in memory of friend's son
A man is to take on a mammoth challenge of cycling from the Isle of Man to Inverness to raise money for the charity which cared for his friend’s son.
Andrew Corey, 43, from Cheltenham, is taking part in the Pan Celtic Race 2024 to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW)
Andrew, a cardiac physiologist, will cycle solo the 1800 kilometres and is hoping to complete the challenge in just 10 days.
During his challenge, in which he plans to cover around 170 kilometres each day, Andrew will wild camp as well as staying in guest houses and B&B’s along the way.
He will do the challenge without a support vehicle and while carrying all his camping gear and clothes on his bike.
Andrew took up cycling as a hobby two years ago.
“I have always cycled but didn’t really start it as a serious hobby until about two years ago,” he said.
“But at 43 I had noticed a little bit of middle-aged spread so I started to take it more seriously.
“I joined an online cycling platform and lost 10kgs in four months.”
This is the biggest ride that Andrew has ever done.
In the past he has dine a 100 mile charity ride and a 256 kilometre cycle which took him 16 hours to complete.
I am used to being out on a bike, but this challenge is very different as its cycling over 10 successive days.
"That’s a long time to be on a bike."
Andrew was inspired to raise money for CHSW after his friend’s son was cared for at the Charlton Farm Hospice in Wraxall.
“My friend said he and his family had exceptional care and support from CHSW,” Andrew said.
“They said it was an amazing charity and I wanted to do something to help raise money to help other families.”
Andrew has been getting into training for his challenge by going out on cycle rides and out for long walks with his Springer Spaniel Buddy.
“I can’t imagine how I am going to feel after completing the challenge,” he said.
“But probably a bit sore.”
Andrew is hoping to raise £1000 from his challenge for CHSW.
Anyone who wants to make a donation can do so at www.justgiving.com/page/pancelticforcharlie