Wellspring supporter David James, is launching into his retirement on a new sets of tyres for an epic fundraising challenge for Wellspring.
He is tackling Scotland’s ultimate road trip, the North Coast 500 on his trusted bike on Saturday July 13. David is hoping to complete the 516-mile gruelling route over very hilly and rugged terrain from Inverness, Torridon, Ullapool, Durness, Wick and back to Inverness in just five days! That’s over 100 miles every day.
He explained: “The reason for taking on this challenge is that I am retiring from my career with Asda in Leeds after a rewarding 38 years and a key factor that has supported my own mental health is that I have commuted into the office most days on my bike, a 26-mile round trip from Wetherby.
“The physical exercise and being out in the fresh air taking on all weathers helped me keep a positive attitude. I’d like to encourage others to cycle more, but conscious it’s not practical for everyone, or there may be events in people’s lives that impact their own mental health, and that’s why raising money for Wellspring will allow them to get the support they need.
“The biggest challenge for me on this trip is going to be the first day. It’s the longest out of the five days and the hardest. After 70 miles I have to tackle the UK’s toughest climb, Bealach-na-bar, over six miles with a gradient averaging seven per cent and peaking at over 20 per cent with an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet. On tired legs it’s going to be tough.”
David will be supported by his good friend Martin Ainsworth, who will be completing the North Coast 500 on his motorbike.
Nick Garrett, Interim CEO, understands the challenge ahead, “What David is doing is incredibly tough. I also cycle to work but only travel two miles and I use an electric bike which I’m pretty sure David would say is cheating! When he’s going up the hills, he’ll know the whole Wellspring team are willing him on. Please sponsor him as we’re seeing unprecedented levels of demand particularly from children with poor mental health.”
If you would like to support David and Wellspring, has has a Just Giving page here.
