Sean, one of our trustees, has completed his challenge to cycle 1,000 miles with a staggering 100,000 feet of elevation! This accomplishment is a part of St Augustine’s All Together 24 Challenge - an effort to collectively travel 24,901 miles (the circumference of the Earth) and raise £24,000 to support people seeking sanctuary in Calderdale in 2024!

Over the past four months, Sean has navigated challenging West Yorkshire terrain, unpredictable weather, and exhausting climbs. Here’s a look at his experience through his own words.

 

 

The Final Milestone

Sean reached the finish line after only 42 rides:

'At last, I’ve completed my cycling challenge to cycle 1,000 miles with 100,000 feet of elevation as part of St Augustine’s All Together 24 Challenge. In just under 4 months over 42 rides, I’ve completed 1,014 miles and 100,639 feet of ascent. It has comprised of 88 hours cycling with an average of 24 miles per ride and 2,396 of elevation.'

However, his journey wasn’t without its difficulties. From two punctures (both on the same day!) to the endless struggle with the wind, he never lost sight of his purpose:

'The real reason I did it—and the thing that kept me motivated—was supporting such an amazing cause. Every time I go to St Augustine’s, I get more and more blown away by the incredible work being done there and the amazing atmosphere. As well as raising money, I hope this challenge also helps to get the message out of the critical work they do and the challenges they also face.'

 

Battling the Wind and Pushing Forward

One of Sean’s biggest challenges throughout his journey was the relentless weather. Wind often turned an already difficult route into an uphill battle, making even flat stretches feel like intense climbs.

'I developed a deep hatred of the wind… If it’s chucking it down, I’ll wait until it stops, but I can’t do that for the wind or I’d never complete the miles. And yet... I’m fitter than I have been in a long time!'

 

 

Now that Sean has smashed his fundraising goal, he’s incredibly grateful for everyone who cheered him on, donated, and supported his journey. With your help, we’re 72% towards our total All Together 24 Challenge target of £24,000 (including Gift Aid). Let’s keep the momentum going! Click the link here to donate and help us reach our target by year’s end.

THANK YOU SEAN!