Pedal Powered Stories

Six weeks to go, and the countdown is getting very real. Given the distances involved, I’ll be heading out to Kenya a week early to acclimatise before the ride begins. Plus I’ve always loved both travel and history so the opportunity to spend some time in Nairobi itself, and Mombasa, is simply too good to pass up. All the accommodation and internal transport for that first week is now confirmed, which makes the whole adventure feel closer than ever. Alongside the training, I’ve been pulling together the all-important kit lists. It’s amazing how quickly the essentials add up - medicines, electrolyte powders, energy gels… and yes, chamois cream has made it onto the shopping list too. Not the most glamorous item, and applying it is very undignified, but anyone who’s spent long hours in the saddle knows it’s worth its weight in gold! But beyond the logistics and the kit, it’s important to remember why this ride matters. In my last update I mentioned Child.org and their maternal health ...

Eight weeks to go, and the pieces are starting to fall into place. Insurance is now sorted (shout out to Yellow Jersey for their specialist cycling insurance), and the next step is to get my e-visa sorted. I’ve also decided that it’s probably a good idea to start scaling back my CrossFit sessions at CrossFit Dawn : still training, but easing off the intensity to avoid any last-minute injuries. I actually started CrossFit back in January, with this cycle event as the motivation. I wanted to build strength, stamina, and a bit of grit - and I have to say it’s been transformative. There’s been ripped calluses, sore muscles, and the occasional “why am I doing this?” moment, but in the company of some excellent, supportive and genuinely inspiring people. It’s all been part of the journey and I know the effort will help me get across the finish line in Kenya. I’m now 70% of the way towards my £1800 fundraising target, raising money for Child.org . They’re a fabulous charity working to im...

  🚴‍♂️ Charity Cycle Ride Update – Kenya, November 2025 🌍 As the summer sun begins to fade, September cycle training in London has become a game of dodging cars doing the school run and getting soaked in the torrential downpours. It also means it’s time for a quick update on my upcoming charity cycle ride in Kenya this November. While the training wheels are still spinning, this month has been all about the less glamorous but absolutely essential admin tasks. Think travel insurance policies, vaccination appointments, and drafting kit lists. Nothing says “adventure-ready” like a well-organised packing spreadsheet and an arm that feels like a pin-cushion from jabs against every disease under the sun! With the countdown now under 10 weeks, I’m shifting gears from summer dreaming to serious prep. The route through Kenya promises breathtaking landscapes and some serious pedal-powered challenges, all in support of an incredibly worthy cause. How you can help: - If you’ve ...

So I had a lovely ten-day holiday in Crete, but didn't want to let that stop me training for the Ride Africa event!! So I found the local CrossFit gym and dropped in for a couple of sessions - the team at CrossFit Rethymno were super-nice and made me feel really welcome. The facilities and the backdrop were first-class, and I'll try to picture them in my mind when doing training rides in good old English drizzle! If you would like to make a small donation to sponsor my efforts to raise money for Child.org , my Just Giving page is here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/dave-ross-1

Hi friends and colleagues! Here's another snapshot of progress on my Child.org cycle ride this year... Since my last update, I'm pleased to say that all the formalities around the registration have been completed, and it's suddenly become very real - I'm going to Kenya in November! Now it's time to book my flights ✈️ 🌍 Training is still going well, and with the football season now finished I can start doing some back-to-back rides at the weekend. 60 miles a day is fine - but 120 miles over two days is a big step up! Riding this distance in Kenya every day for five days will be a huge endurance challenge, but I'm going to make sure I'm ready for it! 💪 🚴 The generosity of sponsors continues to be humbling, and the kindness and support shown in each message make the aching legs feel a little better. https://www.justgiving.com/page/dave-ross-1 Thanks everyone, and hope you have a wonderful week 🙂

Just a little update from me! Training is ramping up steadily - I've been going to CrossFit classes to build my strength and overall endurance, and more frequent short rides are sharpening the legs for the long journey ahead. Each pedal stroke feels a little stronger, especially when moving off from the lights (I do stop at red lights, honest!) Even better? The generosity of early sponsors has already moved this campaign past 25% of the target! Your support means the world and pushes me forward with every session and every ride. There’s still a long road ahead, but with this momentum, we’re making a real impact. Let’s keep it rolling! https://www.justgiving.com/page/dave-ross-1