April - Expediation Diary

For me March has been a major turning point for the Cycle To Uganda Project. A number of key sponsors have confirmed their generous support, the route for each leg has been finalised and the public launch of the project on 4th March has meant that it no longer feels like a remote challenge. It’s become something real and immediate, not least of all with the step up in training needed if we’re to cover the daily distances required.

The improved weather has meant that many of us have moved from the monotony of the gym to the open road and this has certainly helped motivate me to extend the time spent in the saddle with each ride. The first group training event will build on this feeling, bringing the team together for an enjoyable weekend but also giving everybody valuable practice on the practical aspects of our challenge. It was therefore doubly disappointing when my own training was brought to an abrupt halt by a bad fall.

A badly broken collar bone has set me back by at least a couple of months but once past the disappointment, my determination to return is surprising even me. It’s fuelled by a simple reminder of why we’re doing this. After everything the children of Koch Goma have been through they still have a zest for life and a passion for learning that is hard to reconcile with the horrors they’ve seen. After everything their teachers have endured they still have a single goal; to give these children a chance to build a better life for themselves. Their example is an inspiration and in the face of this, giving up is simply not an option.

So it’s back into the gym on a carefully planned regime to build up fitness in time to return to the open road in June. In the meantime I just have to console myself with my brother’s thoughts. You are not a real long distance cyclist until you’ve broken your collar bone. At least I know I’m finally legitimate!

Dave West, loves his bike!


Morning tea break at Defford.


Nick Bevan, happy finisher!


Relaxed lunch break.


Victoria, happy to be at home.