‘It’s a wonderful environment and a worthy cause to ride for’
‘The end goal will be the one that will keep me motivated’ – Chris Charlton(Image: ymca-humber.com)
A North East Lincolnshire cyclist is preparing to cycle 1,000 miles across the UK in just 11 days to raise vital funds for YMCA Humber. Beginning on Friday, September 4, Chris Charlton will ride between 80 and 125 miles every day, tackling ascents totalling 17,000m carrying everything he needs on his bike.
The challenge aims to raise funds to support YMCA Humber’s work with young people and communities across North East Lincolnshire. Chris will set off from YMCA Humber, crossing into Wales, around Anglesey, climbing through the mountains of Snowdonia, reaching iconic landmarks including Menai Bridge, Llanberis Pass, Portmeirion, the Mach Loop, St David’s and across the south coast of Wales, before returning to 21 Freeman Street on Monday, September 14.
Chris has chosen to take on this challenge because he has seen first-hand the difference YMCA Humber makes within the community. Chris said: “My partner works for YMCA Humber firstly and when we talk about how our days have gone at work, Ceinwen tells me about YMCA and the great things they do for local people who have potentially lost their way in life, or finding somewhere to live for a short period until they can get themselves back on their feet. It is a wonderful environment and is a worthy cause for me to ride for.”
Kate Conway, chief executive at YMCA Humber, said: “Chris’s challenge is about much more than cycling. It’s about resilience, community and creating opportunities for local people. We’re incredibly grateful for his support.”
Chris’s journey is also deeply personal. Along the route, he will stop to visit his late father-in-law’s grave in the Welsh Valleys, a moment of reflection that reminds us all that every journey has a story behind it. To enable Chris to take on this challenge, Havercroft Construction, where Chris works, has kindly provided him with the time away from his role for the majority of the ride.
Chris said: “I am extremely grateful to Grant Bailey for this generous offer, which allows me to take on this challenge. In addition, Havercroft will also be making a donation towards this epic adventure.”
This challenge will be a true test of resilience, determination and endurance. Chris has already raised over £1,000, including Gift Aid, and Chris will be sharing regular updates, allowing supporters to follow his journey and donate as he progresses.
Chris Charlton wants to raise as much as he can for YMCA Humber(Image: ymca-humber.com)
Chris said: “The toughest part will be myself staying motivated and keeping that resilience inside me to keep going. It will be a sense of relief at the end of each leg, but then the toughest bit will be getting up and motivated to get going, but the end goal will be the one that will keep me motivated.”
If you are able to support Chris to raise funds for YMCA Humber, you can donate via his JustGiving appeal page.
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