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From Pie to Pizza
 THE EVENT
Between the 20th and 30th September 2003, the Assistant ICT
Manager of the Trust, John McMahon, is to undertake the enormous
challenge of cycling from Wigan to Pisa, Italy. The leg-numbing
route will see John travelling across the UK, ferrying across the
channel to Belgium, on through France and Switzerland, before
finally arriving in Italy and on to the famous landmark of the
Leaning Tower of Pisa. The journey itself totals over 1000 miles,
passing through undulating terrain, bleak highways and the Swiss
Alps themselves! John is no stranger to events such as these; he
has completed numerous marathons and most recently has cycled from
Land's End to John O' Groats in aid of Multiple Sclerosis (see
images on right). Even though he has the support of a backup
vehicle carrying spares and food, John is already deep into a
rigorous training schedule and is determined to be ready for this
epic event.
THE CAUSE
The proceeds from all
sponsorships are being donated to Wigan & Leigh Hospice, as John
thought this cause was not only worthy, but moreover because he
wanted to help local people. “The thought that I’m helping people
from my local area will hopefully keep me going,” said John. Both
local and national businesses are or will be invited to help in
any way they can. Already,
P&O Ferries have kindly donated
return crossing ferry tickets from Hull to Zeebrugge for the
party, Halfords Ltd have generously agreed to service the
cycles and offer spare parts,
Rick Green Cycles of
Handforth have offered to rebuild John's main cycle for the trip,
Bessie Arderns Bakery in Warrington has kindly agreed to not
only offer sponsorship but also is to make special 'energy
flapjacks' and other delicious products for the journey,
Academy Leasing of Wigan along with
Easi Rent have generously provided the support
vehicle, and of
course John's colleagues in the Trust will be offering their
much-needed support.
THE SUMMARY
As the event comes
closer, local newspapers will be invited for photographs, and
there is a strong possibility of television coverage for the
departure and arrival. John will have to use every ounce of his
determination and willpower to complete this awesome challenge, so
if you do see him training on his bike, please give him a wave...
he’s got a long, long way to go.
FACT FILE
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The
overall journey is approximately 1,100 miles.
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John
will burn nearly 70,000 calories during the eleven-day
journey.
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The
wheels on the bike will revolve over 700,000 times.
DIARY (Part one)
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January 2003 |
John dreams up
the challenge and training regime is planned. Primary
arrangements for travel and support are started. P&O Ferries
agree to donate return ferry tickets. |
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February 2003 |
Training regime begins and
continues to increase. Halfords Ltd agree to service the
cycles and donate spare parts. Bessie Arderns Bakery develop
new energy cakes and agree to supply them for the trip. |
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March 2003 |
Training continues as planned.
Meeting with Wigan & Leigh Hospice takes place to discuss
sponsorship. |
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April 2003 |
Six months to go before event.
Academy Leasing of Wigan agree to supply support vehicle. More companies are contacted. John is interviewed for
broadcast on local radio station WISH FM. |
ENDS
Further Info:
Wigan & Leigh Hospice
Contact: N/A
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