On 14th June, my brother and I, along with six friends will be setting off on a West to East Coast Race Across America (RAAM). This relay cycling event spans 3000 miles, 12 states and 88 counties. We are aiming to complete this non-stop challenge in eight days, riding between 350 and 500 miles a day.

Shortly after this, we will be heading over to Istanbul to take on the Bosphorus Cross-Continental Race. This 6.5km historical swim crosses two continents - Europe to Asia, across one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.

We are taking on these two overseas sporting challenges to raise money for two charities that are very close to our hearts ...

It was shocking to learn that nearly three times more women die from coronary heart disease than breast cancer. We're passionate about raising awareness of this killer disease and money raised from these challenges will go towards funding the British Heart Foundation's life-saving heart research. 

The other charity we're supporting is the Michael Matthews Foundation. Mike tragically died descending the summit of Mount Everest. The Foundation helps to provide education to children all over the world. Mike's brother James, is part of our team.

It means everything to have your support, and thanks in particular goes to Martin Gilbert and Aberdeen Asset Management for their invaluable sponsorship for getting us, quite literally on the road. Every donation will give us extra power to pedal (and paddle) all the way to the finish lines!

Thank you so much.