TWO best friends are training hard as they prepare to cycle more than 50 miles to raise money for a mental health charity close to their hearts.
Zara Hynes, 40, and Ellie Weaving, 38, have been best friends for more than 15 years and often take part in charity events but together will be taking on their biggest challenge to date to hit their £2,000 target.
The pair will be taking part in major cycling fundraiser for Mid and North East Essex Mind which will see them cycle 55 miles from London all the way to Brighton.
Mind charity is close to home for both women who feel there is not enough support for people who struggle in silence so they have taken it upon themselves to get the charity’s name out there to help make a difference.
Ellie said: “Life is a journey and with each pedal we push and pound we raise, we aim to make a difference bringing more peace and positivity along the way.”
Mind offers compassionate and inclusive mental health services, resources, and practical support to promote well-being for everyone.
The organisation sent out training programmes to Zara and Ellie which they tried to follow, however, due to their busy schedules they brought it upon themselves to do the training themselves.
Their most recent ride spanned 49 miles and just over six hours.
The London to Brighton Cycle Ride on September 15 will see thousands of cyclists taking part.
Zara said: “We wanted something that would challenge us and we are determined to get to that finish line.
"It certainly is testing my fitness levels but it’s really good for my mind to get out and switch off.
“I’m looking forward to being part of this massive event, there will be thousands of people and its all mapped out.”
The two cyclists tend to head out training through rural routes which they both find tough but very therapeutic.
Ellie said: “Fitness is a massive part of my life and although I’m a novice when it comes to cycling, I find it a great escape from the hustle and bustle heading into the countryside surrounded by farms and beautiful scenery.”
To donate visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/ellie-zara-london-brighton-1717592121366 or search Ellie and Zara’s Cycle for Mind on justgiving.com
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