Land’s End to John O’Groats for Social Bite
Earlier this year, Geoffrey and Eli took on an epic challenge of cycling from Land’s End to John O’ Groats in support of Social Bite.
After taking to the saddle for over a month to complete the challenge and raising an incredible fundraising total of over £3,000 (more than double their original aim!), Geoffrey and Eli told us more about their challenge.
Choosing to take on an ambitious challenge
"Over the last few years, we have taken a few long cycles in Spain but we were starting to think we really ought to take on a long-distance cycle challenge in the UK as well. Land’s End to John O’ Groats came about after we bumped into a cyclist in a café in Pitlochry who was taking on the challenge.
"A quick chat about how he was getting on and taking at a look at his guidebook for the route and we were sold – this is the UK challenge we were looking for!"
Differences between a challenge in Spain vs across the UK
"The weather was the biggest difference! For our challenges in Spain the weather has generally been warm and we’ve been cycling in areas very used to having cyclists on the roads. We were a little apprehensive about taking on the UK weather for the challenge, especially as we were starting in spring.
"Additionally, Land’s End to John O Groats was quite a bit longer than the previous cycles we had attempted so we knew it was going to be big challenge day in, day out on the saddle."
An adventure every day
"It’s really hard to pick out a particular highlight from the trip. Truly each day had its own character and interest.
"We saw so many beautiful landscapes, villages, and areas right across the UK. Starting in Cornwall was definitely memorable (and challenging!) as it was a lot hillier and steeper that we had imagined. It was very tough on the uphill sections of the ride, and when we were heading up to Beattock Summit we had to contend with hail stones too. Sometimes the highlight was just reaching the destination and being able to lie flat on a comfy bed after a long day of cycling!"
Raising an incredible sum for Social Bite
"We have been bowled over by people’s generosity. We really never expected to raise so much – we had set a target of £1,500 when we set off but within a few days we were having to revise our target upwards.
"We really do want to thank everyone who supported our efforts and ultimately helped support this great cause.
"Knowing we were cycling for Social Bite and their mission to end homelessness did really help give us both a little extra inspiration to keep going day after day, so we could keep raising awareness and funds.
"It was lovely to meet people along the way who saw us in our Social Bite cycling jerseys and got chatting about the work Social Bite does. They were kind to also support our efforts with a donation after hearing about the difference Social Bite makes."
Thinking about taking on your own challenge?
"Whatever your challenge is, we’d say go for it! It’s a chance to raise money for a great cause whilst pushing yourself to do something difficult. For us, we were able to find out a little more about ourselves as well as the country throughout our challenge.
"And you don’t need to do it alone. We did the challenge together but also were so lucky to be supported by friends and family along the way. They joined us on a bike for a day, met us for an evening meal, or let us pop in for a chat and a little sweet treat to fuel us for the rest of the day.
"We had an incredible time taking on the challenge!"
Get involved
If you’re thinking of taking on a challenge for Social Bite, reach out to our team at community@social-bite.co.uk or take a look at the events below. We’d love to discuss options or how we can support you to reach your goals and support the movement to end homelessness.