Cycling the South Downs Way Double in 24 hours in memory of best mate

Monday, 7 March 2022 07:00

Tom Goddard, 35, from Worthing, has set himself the mammoth challenge of cycling the South Downs Way Double in memory of his best mate, Joe, who passed away in September 2021, aged 34.

Setting off on Saturday 25 June 2022, Tom will be cycling the iconic route from Eastbourne to Winchester - and back again – within 24 hours. In total, he will cover around 200 miles and climb 23,000 feet, a challenge that usually takes people up to five days to complete.

While taking on this endurance challenge through one of the UK’s most famous National Trails, Tom said his main motivation is knowing that he’s raising vital funds for a cause that’s close to his heart, St Barnabas House hospice, who looked after Joe towards the end of his illness.

“I met Joe in 2012 at our local triathlon club,” said Tom. “As soon as we met, we became close friends. Our kids are similar in age, so we were going through similar life experiences together, we’d always have a laugh and a moan about them growing up too quickly and not getting enough sleep!”

In 2019, Joe was diagnosed with cancer and told that it was terminal. “Even when he was ill, Joe was determined to stay active, so he got an e-bike and we continued to go riding together.”

Joe sadly passed away in September 2021, aged 34, at home being cared for by St Barnabas House.

Speaking about his fundraising, Tom said, “Joe spent the last few weeks of his life being cared for by the fantastic nurses from St Barnabas House, and the care they gave him was incredible. I want to raise money for the hospice to say thank you for all they did for Joe at that time. If you can, please make a donation to spur me on, I'd also welcome any company on training rides or for a section on the day!”

When asked what Joe would say about this fundraising challenge, Tom laughed, “I think Joe would have thoroughly approved of this idiocy!”

To sponsor Tom’s South Downs Way Double in 24 hours, please visit: www.justgiving.com/tomgoddard2022

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