Monday, 4 August 2014

Man and mountains meet to do great things!

Keen cyclist Paul Lockyer has spent months training for the toughest challenge of his life ...a 900km timed bike race from Venice to Geneva
The Haute Route Dolomites is a  seven-day race over 17 mountain passes and reaches heights of 62,000ft!
And Paul’s motivation is our Happy House family, who will benefit from the money he is raising in sponsorship.
Paul says:"I’ve done many things in preparation over the last seven months, not least learned to love beetroot juice for breakfast, discovered quinoa, chia seeds and wheat grass, lost weight, cycled nearly 5,000km over 200 hours burning 90,000 calories in wind, rain, snow and scorching sunshine. 
 I’ve climbed 10% gradients during my search for the long way to work at 6am in the morning, I’ve enjoyed coffee and croissants in the sunshine by the lake and I’ve sat shivering, with snow blowing in the wind, trying to eat some sugar in a doorway, after conquering the top of the 2757m Stelvio pass.
I’m worried it’s not enough, but I couldn't do more so it will have to do.
Jonathan
 Why these children and why the Happy House?
 Kenya continues to suffer political, economic and many other challenges.
Many international visitors have travelled through Kenya and hand delivered their donations.
The current troubles have reduced the number of travellers – meaning the charity needs to pay postage and import duties for the basics many take for granted such as toothbrushes, sanitary towels, books and pens.
My family has been helping the UK nationals who run the home for many years. 
My twin sisters sponsor twin boys at the Happy House.
James
After meeting the people involved I was struck by their energy and enthusiasm and genuine commitment to give these children the best possible opportunities.
All my costs are covered; race fees and accommodation and helicopter rescue insurance! Any donation you make will go directly to the Happy House charity.
If you are able to make even a small donation I am very grateful. You can think of me suffering in the saddle or you can think of the happiness you can bring the children of Watamu.”
We are so grateful to Paul for going to these lengths to help our family at a very difficult time.
If you would like to support his effort please go to: https://www.justgiving.com/Paul-Lockyer2