A WORLD champion duathlete and triathlete from Evesham will be attempting to cycle a legendary Tour de France route in the Alps three times, by three different routes, in just one day.
Helen Russell, 41, is taking on the Ultimate Ventoux Challenge to raise money for Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance, and the national Children’s Air Ambulance.
She is being joined by cyclists from across the Vale for the fundraising expedition which takes place from Friday, June 23 to Sunday, June 25.
The team will be tackling the 137km route which includes more than 4,400 metres of climbing in unpredictable conditions and wind speeds that can reach as much as 200mph.
The mountain, dubbed the Giant Provence, is 1,912 metres high, with long stretches of road at a 10 to 12 per cent gradient.
Success in the tough challenge will see riders gain entry to the exclusive Club de Cingles du Mont Ventoux.
Helen said: “The challenge, whilst tough is achievable for regular recreational cyclists so I would urge people to sign up.
“Also, by cycling up Mount Ventoux three times in one day each rider that completes the challenge will receive membership of the prestigious Cingles Club. There is plenty of time to train for this amazing challenge.
“The mountain is definitely a bucket list ride which all keen cyclists would like to tick off, so come and join us for the ride of a lifetime.
“Also this year to cycle the mountain as it is the 50th anniversary of the death of Tommy Simpson on the mountain so cyclists can be part of the commemorations that mark the anniversary.
“I was surprised to learn that the Air Ambulance Service doesn’t receive any Government funding and relies on public donations so I wanted to help raise funds to support this vital service.”
There are still places left on the fundraising expedition. The Air Ambulance service will pay the air fare and accommodation, but interested cyclists will have to pay a £250 registration fee and commit to raise more than £750.
Visit www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk/fundraising-challenges/ultimate-ventoux-challenge/ for more information.
