Mission Accomplished

This year’s Great Cycle Challenge was full of firsts—and one powerful finish.

• First year I couldn’t start within the opening week.

• First time I truly wondered if I’d reach my distance goal.

• First time riding 50 km non-stop.

• First time pushing through pouring rain.

• First time riding the entire challenge on a single-speed bike.

But despite the challenges, I crossed the finish line—206 km in just two weeks, wrapping up on the final day of August.

This ride was about more than personal milestones. It was about standing up for kids fighting cancer. Your sponsorship helped turn every kilometer into hope, research, and support for children and families who need it most.

Thank you for your generosity, encouragement, and belief in the cause. Together, we’re making a difference.

Halfway There!!

17:00 Mostly Cloudy 26c SSW22 gusts 35 31c 56%

16:00 Mostly Cloudy 27c SSW20 gusts 33 32c 53%

15:00 Mostly Cloudy 27c SSW23 gusts 36 32c 50%

Strong wind gusts were my friend & foe all the way. Head wind and 32c on the way home made this ride particularly challenging. 100km in a week is a first for me.

Delighted to have made it to the halfway point.

What a Ride!!

Today’s ride? I let Yellow Bee choose the route. Never again.

As a city dweller and a single-speed, I figured it would stick to well-beaten paths — gentle curves, maybe a bump or two, a scenic detour at most. You know, civilized cycling.

At first, things seemed promising. We cruised along the paved bike paths, surrounded by traffic and noise, but I stayed sharp and in control. As we merged onto the Watts Creek pathway, I started to relax, enjoying the scenery. That’s when I let go — not of the handlebars, but of the decision-making. I trusted Yellow Bee.

Big mistake.

Without warning, Yellow Bee took a sharp 90-degree turn off the path and onto a dirt trail. Not even 500 meters in, we hit a brutal climb. I pretended not to notice its labored breathing. Like any good riding partner, I kept quiet — but I was thinking, “This’ll teach you.” Yellow Bee must’ve sensed it. It let out a couple of strained grunts and pressed harder, but didn’t go any faster. Somehow, against all odds, we made it to the top.

Then, just as I started to feel smug, Yellow Bee decided to teach me a lesson. With a reckless “Yahoooo!” it tore downhill like it had no brakes, no fear, and no regard for life or limb. I was certain we were moments away from becoming one with a tree or skidding into a ditch. My desperate shouts — “Slow down! Are you insane? You’re going to get us both killed!” — were swallowed by the wind, and all I got in return was a mouthful of flies.

But Yellow Bee didn’t care. It was in its element, slipping and sliding over loose gravel like a wild thing, while I clung to the handlebars and prayed for mercy.

I didn’t say a word the rest of the way.

When we finally got home, and I wheeled Yellow Bee into the garage, it chirped, “Wasn’t that fun?”

I whispered back, “Sure… never again.”

Back in the Saddle

After a bit of a rough start, I’m finally getting back in the saddle. Yesterday marked Day 1 for me, and determined to catch up on my pledged distance, I set a bold target: 50 km.

So, I dusted off “Yellow Bee”—my trusty old single-speed bike, lovingly rebuilt by a colleague—grabbed a water bottle, strapped on my helmet, and hit the road. It took some time, and by the end, my calves and quads were in total shock.

But hey… 51 km. That’s what happened, boys! I am certain they will forgive me soon!!

Thank you to my donors for your support. It means a lot to me and my cause.