Update

I am pleased to report that I survived the Etape Caledonia despite the distance, the hills and the carpet tacks! In case you missed it, the event was disrupted when thousands of carpet tacks were spread over the road - see the following report

 http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/tayside_and_central/8055240.stm

The race was stopped for an hour and a half and there were hundreds of punctures, but these were mainly amongst the lead riders, which didn't include me!! It took me 5 hours 45 minutes to cycle the shortened route (only 75 miles!), excluding the time we had to wait for the roads to be swept. I found it really hard going at times, especially up Schiehallion, but it was all worthwhile in the end.

Many many thanks to all who have sponsored me. The total sponsorship (including Gift Aid) now stands at approximately £2500, which is a fantastic amount. I am confident that Macmillan Cancer Support will put it to very good use.

David

Original Message

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page.

Around Christmas time I decided to enter the Etape Caledonia - an 81 mile cycle challenge around Pitlochry. Cycling along the banks of Loch Tummel and Loch Rannoch sounds wonderful, but the section up and over the 'flanks' of Schiehallion (3547 ft) after 50 miles is much less appealing! At least I won't be alone - there are 3500 other crazy people taking part. 

Macmillan Cancer Support are sponsoring the entire event and I would very much like to raise some money for this very worthy cause. This would also be a great motivation for me and help me in my attempt to complete the course before nightfall!

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Macmillan Cancer Support 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.

So please sponsor me now!

Many thanks for your support.

David