Along with jumping from a plane and diving on the Great Barrier Reef, cycling from London to Brighton was always on my wish list.
I grew up just outside of Brighton and having moved to London in my early twenties, I was constantly getting the train back down from Victoria to visit my family. The thought of being able to cycle between the two cities was mind-blowing. Not that I intended to do it every time I visited my family. Or even more than once. I just wanted to do it.
The first time I made the ride was in 2003 when I cycled for The British Heart Foundation. A good friend of mine advises that if you’re going to raise money for charity you should choose the charity that supports the cause of the disease you think you’re most likely to suffer from, and having just come out of a six year relationship this seemed the most appropriate!
That was almost 10 years ago. I was younger, fitter and slimmer. I had the enthusiastic plan to drive down to my parents house with my bike the night before, get the early train to London, cycle back and have my car waiting for me at the other end. Great plan. I hadn’t figured on getting drunk with my dad on gin the night before but that’s what happened nonetheless.
However much he drinks my dad never seems to get a hangover. Even now in his seventies he still gets up at 6.30am or some ridiculous time and starts getting on with the day’s self imposed chore of redecorating the hallway or installing a new kitchen. I, on the other hand was wrecked. I’m sure I was still drunk on the 7.42am train to Victoria and rode the entire 64 miles or whatever it is on a stinking hangover. Never before has a dip in the sea and fish and chips on the beach been more welcome or felt so good.
That’s what I’m looking forward to most. The dip in the sea when it’s all over. Except this time I’m cycling through the night. A Moon Ride. So it will be a dawn dip and breakfast. Although I see no reason why I can’t have fish and chips for breakfast. It’s the seaside and I will have just cycled 100k!
Some of you that have seen my show People Pleaser may have heard my Alzheimer’s song and will know that my dear old Nan suffered with dementia for more years than, well, more years that she can remember. So for the Moon Ride my chosen charity is the Alzheimer’s Society. Especially since I heard it may be hereditary. (Dad, didn’t you redecorate the hall last weekend?) I want to do all I can to help fight Alzheimer’s in the memory of Nana Rose.
So Please think of me on Friday night (29th June) when you're in the pub or tucked up in bed. I'll be guzzling glucose drinks and peddling like a good 'un. Don't just think of me though (although the thought of you thinking of me while you're tucked up in bed is strangely pleasant…) Think of me, then give me some money. Anything you can donate will be much appreciated. I seriously think we can kick this disease during my lifetime. In fact, I’m counting on it.
Thank you.
lara A king.
Funny Women Awards Winner 2011, Lara A King, is cycling from London to Brighton in aid of The Alzheimers Society. Along with her friend Gail, they aim to raise £600 for this fantastic care and research charity, providing help for people with the disease as well as their friends and carers.
You can DONATE HERE.
