Award Winner’s Speech
So the trip is over and it’s back to reality for me. I started this journey in December last year so it’s been a long project. The money raised will help people of all ages who suffer from arthritis. I couldn’t have done this trip alone so I want to say a big thank you to everyone who helped me along the way.
Firstly, I couldn’t have done the trip without the love and support from my family. My Dad planned the route, booked campsites, drove the van, rode his bike with me and encouraged me along the way. He committed a lot of time to join me for the journey so I appreciate all of his hard work. Thank you ever so much Dad- a trip to remember! My Mum’s support has been incredible as well. She joined us for a month at the beginning of the trip and was there for the finale in Rome. Mum is a keen golfer and got the ladies at her club involved in the adventure. They’ve had plenty of fundraisers to help the charities- thank you very much! My brother Tim spent 10 weeks with me on the trip. His support was amazing throughout his time and he always encouraged me to push myself. What a man! My sister Bridget also supported me a great deal. She joined us on three separate occasions during the trip and was there in Rome. Bridget raised awareness of my ride at her work, which resulted in a three of her colleagues joining me to ride along the south coast! Cheers B! Lastly, my amazing girlfriend Brandi supported me no end. From day one when I told her about my idea she has always encouraged me. We’ve spent a most of the year apart although she did visit me twice during the journey. Thank you for all the hard work you did in Korea raising money and awareness- much love.
A massive thank you to my wider family as well! Auntie Gill and Geoff your support has meant so much to me- thank you for everything you’ve done. Uncle Alistair, Auntie Jeanie, Hugh, Jo, Jac, Jess and all the children your support has been awesome. I’ll miss Alistair’s comments! Uncle John and Auntie Francie thank you for your support too!
Next, a huge shout out to all of my friends who’ve supported me along the way from the UK and around the world. Thank you so much for your donations, comments and help during the trip. Marty and Soo at Harry’s Beer House in Korea your support has been incredible. From day one you’ve been behind me and have done so much to raise awareness of the trip- thank you. Rich, Holly, Kayleigh, Joe, Dave, Jimmy, Kev, Jon, Marko and the rest of you in Korea thank you- awesome stuff. Martin and the guys at the Seoul Sunday Football League thank you so much for the donation- I really appreciate it.
A big shout out to all of my Warwick friends for your love and support. Carinne, Suraj, Crofty and Ellie thank you for visiting me and sharing in the experience. Thank you to my school friends and Bedford pals who’ve been there during the trip. Sam, Stan, Jc and Luce you’ve been brilliant!
My two charities were the Children’s Chronic Arthritis Association (CCAA) and Arthritis Research UK (ARUK). Your support meant a lot to me throughout the trip and I hope you continue to do your fine work. Shelley and Sue at CCAA and Emilia at ARUK thank you ever so much for your encouragement and help.
I couldn’t have done this trip without a bike, equipment, a website, a physio and a gym. These things were provided by a number of people who I’m very grateful for. Matt at Giant Docklands helped me with my fantastic bike- thank you! James at Hy-pro designed logos, t-shirts and leaflets all in his own time-thank you for your hard work mate. Atul at Hy-pro supplied me with some excellent equipment so thank you for everything you did to help me.
Paula you’ve been brilliant since day one. The website you designed was great and your support throughout the trip has been amazing. I appreciate all of your hard work and help!
Birdman you’ve been a star! Thank you to Sure Languages for providing me with excellent translations of my leaflet. The people on the trip loved them! Pro Creations thank you again for the artwork on the van- we garnered a lot of attention at the campsites! I’ll miss the van- it’s now safe with Marion and Rob so thank you for looking after it!
A big thank you to Rod and Kirstin at St Just Sports Centre. You guys got me in shape for the ride so I couldn’t have done it without you. I spent a lot of time in the gym so I really appreciate all of your help. My physiotherapist Dom at Clarence House also worked tirelessly to get me into shape. The improvements in my hip and mobility have been staggering- thank you so much for unlocking my potential.
Lastly, a massive thank you to everyone who sponsored or donated to my ride. It’s incredible to see the generosity of people and your support means a lot to me.
I hope I haven’t missed anyone out! As you can see there were a lot of people helping me to get this epic trip completed! Big love!