Cyclist enthusiast David Elliott completed an epic 205 mile challenge to raise vital funds for children with life-limiting conditions and complex disabilities.
After being invited to take part in the Chase the Sun South 2024 ride by a friend, David decided to combine his challenge with fundraising for Lifelites, having heard about our vital work supplying assistive technology to the children’s palliative care sector across Britain and Ireland.
The challenge saw David join hundreds of other cyclists at sunrise on Saturday 22nd June, setting off from Minster-on-sea and heading the 205 miles to Western-Super-Mare by sunset.
The tough route cuts across England, through the Thames estuary and out into green country lanes, quaint villages and the Vale of Pewsey, before climbing the Mendip hills, and descending the breath-taking Cheddar gorge, and finally arriving on the seafront at Weston-Super-Mare.
David, who completed the challenge in 18 hours and 13 minutes, said, “I really enjoyed the challenge which was tough; it was certainly a test of endurance and stamina – mind over matter! The sense of camaraderie amongst participants was fantastic, we were very much all in it together, and many people lined the route to cheer us on which was very much appreciated and really helped us all keep going.
“A highlight for me was descending through Cheddar gorge which was fast and amazing! I would definitely recommend this event. Whilst the 205 mile distance is initially daunting, breaking it down into more manageable sections of 30 miles and eating plenty of ham and cheese sandwiches (plus multiple energy gels and bars) really helped get me through”
David’s incredible efforts have seen him raise an amazing £1,445 so far, which will help us continue providing life-changing technology.
“Through their technology, training and support, Lifelites can help make fantastic experiences for children and help them communicate with their families. I am really interested in that work and wanted to support them through this challenge.”
Lifelites Head of Fundraising and Communications, Simon Pitts, said, “This was an extremely tough challenge and everyone at the Charity has huge respect and admiration for David’s incredible efforts and for raising such a great amount for children with life-limiting conditions across Britain and Ireland.”
If you are a cyclist who fancies a challenge and would like to help support life-changing technology for children with complex life-limiting conditions, then you can sign up for Chase the Sun 2025 here, set up a Just Giving page and raise vital funds for Lifelites.
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