Next Sunday 7 March at 7 am, I should have been taking part in the historic Swedish 90km cross-country ski race, Vasaloppet. COVID restrictions make it difficult to travel to Sweden, so I have decided to complete the distance on roller-skis, at home, in Surrey and take the opportunity to raise awareness of and fundraise for the local children’s charity, Eikon.

I am donating what would have been my travel and race entry fee to get the fundraising going and ask for you to give a little to help these young people. No amount is too small, it all helps and is appreciated!

For those of you who are wondering, roller-skis replicate the action of cross-country skiing but on small wheels and with no brakes! It is how I train for cross-country skiing while living in leafy and largely snow-less Surrey. I have completed the 90km race distance 6 times on skis but I have never attempted it on the road so it will be a tough challenge. IF I finish I’m anticipating a time of 6-7 hours for 36 laps of 2.5km around my local streets. 

The Eikon Charity supports children & young people to overcome challenges, learn vital life skills, improve their resilience, wellbeing and mental health, and develop into confident adults who contribute positively to their communities.We focus on prevention and early intervention – helping them resolve concerns before a crisis can develop. We work directly with children and young people in Surrey schools and communities, one-to-one, in groups, clubs and online. Please give generously so we can help more young people. Thank you.