Eleanor’s journey to LEJOG

This September, I cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats; more than 1,000 miles, 55,000 feet of climbing, and 13 days of rain (yes, really!). It was demanding, but the spirit, support, and laughter shared with incredible friends (old and new) made it an experience I’ll never forget.

We started our journey at Land’s End on Sunday 7th September. It was very rainy and I think we were all questioning our decision at that point! After a few quick photos at the famous Land’s End sign, we set off with a mixture of excitement and fear, all wondering whether we really could cycle 80 miles 14 days on the trot.

Over the next fortnight, we were treated with some stunning scenery, particular highlights for me included Dartmoor – thankfully the weather was kind to us that afternoon, cycling up Cheddar Gorge and our penultimate day cycling up through the highlands towards the North Sea with sunshine and a tail wind!

It was a real mix of emotions for many of us on our final day when we reached the John O’Groats sign; elation, relief, but also a bit of sadness that the journey was over and we would have to say goodbye to our new friends.

We were extremely well looked after by our guides Paul and Bob from Pedal Britain throughout the journey. Bob was on the bike and on hand to support us with mechanical issues, or to encourage us up the hills. Meanwhile, Paul was driving the van with all our kit, and more importantly, providing the much-needed brew stops! Nothing was too much to ask for Paul; fancy some Hula Hoops one day? They’d be at the brew stop the next! He also made sure we were properly fuelled with some amazing lunch stops - a particular highlight being Puddleducks tearoom, which marks the centre point (North to South) of the UK.

Whilst this was a huge personal challenge, it also marked a significant milestone for me: 10 years since I was discharged from my final in-patient admission on an eating disorders ward for anorexia nervosa.

When I was in hospital, my consultant told me that he felt I had a strong chance of making a full recovery. Prior to this, I had a misconception that I would have to learn to manage my illness for the rest of my life. However, during my admission in 2015, I worked hard with the amazing staff to challenge my illness and can whole heartedly say that I have made a full and sustained recovery.

This ride was a celebration of my recovery – a way to show that full recovery is not only possible, but worth fighting for.

However, I cannot stress enough that completing this ride was only possible by making sure I was correctly fuelled, both during my training and particularly the ride. I am astounded by what our bodies can achieve when they are properly nourished.

A special mention to my friend Fiona for being a constant source of encouragement throughout the journey, and to my husband, Aidan, who has supported me throughout my training and even flew up to Scotland to see me across the finish line.

As well as my latest challenge, since being healthy I am no longer controlled by anorexia and have regained my freedom. This has allowed me to meet my husband, build a successful career and make many happy memories with friends and family.

I am very proud to have raised over £6,000 for Beat whilst completing my challenge and hope that I can inspire others to continue to fight for their recovery and freedom.

Are you interested in taking on a challenge for us? Take a look at our Runs, Treks and Challenge page here: Choose your challenge for Beat