Why Hello

A big Thank You to all those who sponsored my ride down to Le Mans last year.  I thoroughly enjoyed it and raised nearly £500 (before adding Charity Aid).  I had initially planned to complete the Lands End to John O'Goats or the Coast to Coast this year but I've had a change of mind.

Instead, this year I have registered to compete in the Saab / Solomon Mega Avalanche downhill mountain bike race down Alpe D'Huez in France.  The Race will be held on Saturday the 11th of July 2009  I have met all the costs for this entry.  The Blue Cross has not (and will not be asked to) contibuted in any way so all your donations will go to them.

Those that know about the Tour de France will know Alpe d'Huez is senominous with cycling.  Well the mountain bike boys don't like to let their roadie cousins have all the fun.  The course of the Mega Avalanche starts at the top of the mountain on the glacier and finishes in Le Fonderie in the valley some 22-miles later and 9,000ft below.  Here is the official web address for the event http://www.avalanchecup.com/megavalanche-alpe-dhuez-news-videos.html.  Although a simple Google or You Tube search for 'Mega Avalanche' will provide enough information for the curious.  This year there will be 1800 people competing.

I'll be riding the bikes in the image opposite. The full-on downhill bike (the black one behind) will be used for 'Qualifying' and the trail bike (the green one in front) will be used in the 'Race'.

As for my choosen charity?  Well last year it was the British Red Cross so to avoid accusations of Political bias I'm riding for the Blue Cross this year.  Not sure there is a Yellow Cross but I'll worry about that next year.  The fact that the Blue Cross are a worthy charity, deserving of support is, luckily, coincidental.

Just Giving blurb:

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

Thanks for reading, now crack open your wallet - please

Stewart Catley