Students complete extraordinary cycle for Movember

Edinburgh University Cycling Club cycle over 600km raising more than £5,000 for Movember.

Earlier this month, in a remarkable display of determination and camaraderie, eight members of the Edinburgh University Cycling Club completed a gruelling 668km cycle from London to Edinburgh, raising an impressive £5,000 for the Movember Foundation.

Among the riders taking on this remarkable challenge were Biomedical Sciences student Alex Mutter, Computer Science student  Angus Toms and French student Calum Dempster. The three students were joined on the ride by recent graduates and club alumni.

An epic challenge

The ambitious journey was meticulously planned over three months, during which the dedicated cyclists managed to secure £3,000 in funds before embarking on their epic adventure. On 11 November 2023 the group set off from London nervous but excited for the challenge ahead.

"In Huntingdon, our first challenge unfolded, and we deftly adhered to a strict 30-minute time allowance, executing a swift and efficient stop, but as nightfall descended upon the flat lands of Lincolnshire, a new set of challenges emerged. Facing 14 hours of darkness, we took extra time for refuelling and suited up in deep winter kit as temperatures plummeted," shared Douglas Phillips.

A friend joined the group until Newcastle, injecting renewed energy to give the group a boost to continue their journey

"Adversity struck as Gregor faced three consecutive punctures. Undeterred, the team rallied together, calling in the support car for a fresh tire despite the freezing conditions," recounted Douglas.

Crossing the border into Scotland marked a significant milestone, and the wind at their backs signalled that the end was within reach. As night fell for the second time, the cyclists faced the longest and most significant climb yet, up the A68 as the lights of Edinburgh emerged over the brow and the rain began to fall.

Destination Edinburgh

After more than 28 hours in the saddle, the cyclists heard the cheers of a huge crowd awaiting their triumphant arrival at their final destination in Edinburgh. Emotions ran high as the exhaustion and sleep deprivation were momentarily forgotten. The team had accomplished the incredible feat of cycling from London to Edinburgh in one continuous journey, raising over £5,000 for Movember.

Reflecting on their achievement, the cyclists expressed gratitude for the support they received and pondered the challenge of one-upping themselves in the future, asking the question: "How are we going to top this next year?" 

Movember

Movember are the leading charity in changing the face of men’s health; mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

Donate to the clubs fundraising LDN-EDI23 page (external link)

Related links

Edinburgh University Sports Union (external site)

Edinburgh University Cycling Club (external site)