Thanks for visiting my fundraising page.

On 20th July, I somehow managed to complete this year's Etape du Tour . It was an actual stage of this year's Tour de France -  108 miles, over five mountains, finishing at  the summit of Mont Ventoux, at 2000m.

The first 94 miles went great, taking me just a few minutes over 6 hours, but then it got messy! The last 14 miles took me more than 3 hours...the constant gradient of more than 10% and the heat above 40 degrees really took their toll. Most people were walking, but I was determined to cycle every inch of the Ventoux and although I had to take a few rests, I got there in the end! It was the hardest thing I've ever done, but also probably the most rewarding.

I'm raising money for Childline - where I volunteer as a telephone counsellor - and even though I've now done the Etape, you can still donate.

Here's the science bit:

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: ChildLine gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Hopefully that made sense.

You can read a full report at www.shirishetape09@blogspot.com.

Thanks for your support,

Shirish