The last bicycle I owned was a Raleigh Burner which I got for my 10th birthday: I'm now about to take on a 100 mile ride, having got back on a bike for the first time 6 weeks ago.

Although I've had a good and patient teacher, Ben Haining, I've had plenty of no-speed falls and I'm still not wholly successful at getting my feet out of the clips when I need to stop - as a result, my right elbow is pretty banged up.

You might wonder why I would put myself through this? Very simply, I believe that strongly in what the Elena Baltacha Foundation is doing. I was lucky enough to be introduced to 'Bally' by Ben, she came to dinner at our house and her passion for tennis was obvious but the most striking thing was how down to earth and genuine she was. Her desire to help underprivileged young people get into sport through tennis and even give them access to the elite level of the game brings together two of my great interests; sport and giving young people a chance.

So I'd ask you to make what I'm about to put myself through even more worthwhile and support the cause. Any amount you can spare would be hugely appreciated.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.