Gordon Completes Epic 172-mile Charity Cycle Challenge

We’re sending our huge congratulations to Isle of Man local Gordon Drinkwater, who has successfully completed a massive 172-mile cycling challenge in aid of Manx charity Breast Cancer Now.

Gordon, who is 72-years-old and lives in Port Erin in the south of the island, cycled a whopping 172-miles from Whitehaven to South Shields over three days, finishing his journey on Sunday (July 21st). The route followed lovely cycle lanes and parks, but also saw ‘hills, hills, and more hills’, as Gordon described. 

On completing his epic challenge, Gordon said: “I really enjoyed the challenge, and was very surprised that I could actually move each morning. I’ve got one more cycle challenge to go in August, and I feel pretty confident in that one now and am considering trying to complete that in one day – we’ll see..” 

We are very proud to have supported Gordon with travel to and from the island so he could undertake his cycle, as part of our Manx Community Assistance (MCA) scheme. The aim of the MCA scheme is to provide community assistance to those whose aims are to improve the quality of life of island residents, and assist island based or international charitable organisations or good causes. We also offer support to charitable organisations, businesses and groups hosting island fundraising events such as raffles. 

Raising much-needed funds for Breast Cancer Now is close to Gordon’s heart, as he lost his mum to breast cancer many years ago. His wife was also diagnosed 18 years ago and fortunately, after treatment, is doing well and enjoying life. 

Gordon started cycling in 2020 during the pandemic as a way to keep fit, and last year raised £1,300 on a cycle challenge from Liverpool and Chester and back. 

And Gordon isn’t stopping now he’s completed his challenge, he’s planning another huge challenge in August. He’s planning on cycling from Chester to Hereford, which is approximately 100 miles, between two RAF bases where he was once stationed. 

So far this year, we have supported a large number of individuals, groups, and organisations through the MCA scheme and we pleased to not only support Gordon with his fundraising effort, but many others in our community. 

To find out more about the Manx Community Assistance schemes and to make an application click here.

Donate to Gordon’s fundraising efforts here.