Three Peaks Cycling and Hiking Challenge

About the Charity

The Porch is an East Oxford-based charity whose mission is to support the homeless, re-rehoused homeless and vulnerably housed people. They provide day-long support to these vulnerable people wanting to move forward with their lives, away from street-life and addiction.

The incredible, selfless and dedicated people at The Porch provide services such as welfare support, rehabilitation, mental health, counselling, therapies and addiction support. They've been running for over 30 years and are now looking to move to larger premises - this is where we need your support!

By donating to our cause you will be helping some of the most vulnerable people in our society, and provide them with the support that government and local councils haven't been able to. 

***ALL MONEY RAISED GOES DIRECTLY TO THE CHARITY***

About the Challenge

The Three Peaks Challenge is a pretty well-known event in the UK, whereby each hiker has a 24 hour period to climb the three highest peaks in Scotland (Ben Nevis), England (Scafell Pike), and Wales (Snowdon). However, we thought we'd add a little twist and make it even more difficult by cycling between each peak!

We'll cycle somewhere around 800km, and climb over 4000m, in 5 days, completely self-supported. 

We'll cycle through the Highlands, the Lake District, as well as through the Black Mountains. It'll be beautifully savage, and we can't wait! 

About Us

Rory Bell

"A relative novice compared to my travel companions having not ventured across half the world on 2 wheels (!), I’m embarking on this adventure to both feed my thirst for an adventurous challenge and of course raise funds for an important charity. Homelessness being something I see daily which doesn’t make it any more acceptable in the society we live.

Although I haven’t trekked in the Scottish highlands or the Lakes for a number of years, I’ve been lucky enough to have wild camped in snowy Norwegian fjords and the Breacon Beacons, as well as running up and down Snowdon in a half Ironman race just last year. Mountains are a place I love having done expeditions to the Atlas Mountains (Morocco), the European alps including Mt Blanc (France), Gran Paradiso (Italy) and most recently Mt Triglav (Slovenia). 

It’s always good to remember that adventure is also on our doorstep and what better way to see the British Isles than on two wheels and two feet with a couple of mates!"

George Cullen

In 2019, George completed a 14,000km, 19 country cycle from London to Tokyo, raising over £37,000 for charity in the process alongside his friend Ben. It was on this trip, in Azerbaijan, where George and Suni first met, sowing the seeds for this particular 3 Peaks endeavour. 

Currently teaching and playing semi-professional, George continues to harbour a desire to explore what the world has to offer, particularly focusing on the UK in 2020. The chance to raise funds for The Porch charity and help the homeless in Oxford, while having an adventure with mates, is extremely exciting! 

Sunil Kandola

A former Captain in the British Army, Sunil's used to physical challenges and endurance events. Prior to this event, he's completed 10 marathons, 7 ultra-marathons and several triathlons, as well as cycled half-way around the globe (which is where he met his good friend, George). However, this challenge will be special as it'll be on home turf! 

The Porch is a charity close to Sunil's heart as they help the most vulnerable people in his local community of East Oxford. For the past few months, he's been volunteering at the centre and it was during his time there that he witnessed the value they bring to the people they serve. 

The centre is filled with some of the most selfless staff, but they need help to keep running the place, which is where you and your generous donation comes in.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I hope you can donate to this wonderful charity and help make our communities stronger.