Handlebar Heroes, Leigh Greenwood, Chris Wann, Gareth Turner, and Ashley Parkinson – recently completed an intense training ride through the picturesque yet challenging Lake District. This demanding excursion served as crucial preparation for their upcoming epic endeavour: conquering the iconic Land’s End to John O’Groats (LEJOG) route.
These four determined men are gearing up to tackle a staggering 966 miles in just eight days, from the 17th to the 24th of May 2025. Their ambitious goal isn’t just a personal test of endurance but a powerful fundraising initiative for two incredibly worthy causes: Cancer Research UK and Andy’s Man Club.
The Training Journey – Day 1
Their training journey commenced at Leigh Greenwood’s house in Halifax (Picture 1), marking the beginning of a two-day adventure designed to push their limits and fine-tune their teamwork. The initial miles proved the immediate demands of the road. Just 37 miles in, a crucial stop in Kettlewell (Picture 2) was necessitated by a flagging Chris Wann, highlighting the importance of fuelling both body and spirit with a brew and some sugar.
The challenging terrain of the Yorkshire Dales soon presented itself. Reaching the summit of Fleet Moss at 47 miles (Picture 3), the riders battled a significant headwind, leaving them feeling knackered but undeterred. A well-deserved lunch break in the charming town of Hawes at the 53-mile mark (Picture 4) provided a vital opportunity to refuel and regroup before tackling the infamous Buttertubs Pass, reached at 57 miles.
The day’s efforts took their toll, evident as the sun and wind-burnt riders enjoyed their evening scoff at the Brittania (Picture 5). Gareth Turner, in particular, was feeling the strain, nursing a sore bum.
Their overnight stop brought them to the heart of the Lake District at Hastel Elterwater (Picture 6). While the morning air was a bit whiffy, the weary heroes managed to get a good night’s kip, albeit in the close quarters of bunk beds.
Day 2
The following morning saw the bikes packed and ready for another day of challenging miles (Picture 1). The stunning scenery of the Lake District provided a breath-taking backdrop as they continued their training. A stop in Arnside (Picture 2) allowed Leigh Greenwood, Gareth Turner, and Ashley Parkinson to soak in the coastal views.
The need for energy replenishment was a recurring theme, with a sugar-fueled stop in Carnforth at 36 miles into the next leg. The picturesque Crook O’ Lune (Picture 3) offered a brief respite before they pressed on.
Their journey continued through varied landscapes, culminating in a stop in Whalley at 74 miles (Picture 4). Despite the beautiful surroundings, the effects of the relentless sun were evident on Ashley Parkinson, Gareth Turner, and Leigh Greenwood, who were visibly sunburnt.
This demanding training ride through the Lake District has undoubtedly provided Leigh Greenwood, Chris Wann, Gareth Turner, and Ashley Parkinson with invaluable experience, both physically and mentally. They have faced challenging climbs, battled headwinds, and learned the importance of pacing, nutrition, and mutual support.
How To Donate
Now, you have the opportunity to support the Handlebar Heroes in their incredible LEJOG challenge and help them reach their fundraising goals for Cancer Research UK and Andy’s Man Club. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a real difference to these vital charities.
Click the link to show your support and donate today: Make a donation
Follow Their Progress
Want to follow their progress every step of the way? Get regular updates, photos, and insights from their journey by following the Handlebar Heroes on social media:
With their LEJOG departure just around the corner, your generosity will provide a significant boost as they embark on their incredible 966-mile journey for two incredibly important causes. Please help them make a lasting impact!
