Chris Charlton Completes 1,000-Mile Challenge, Raising Over £3,000 For YMCA Humber

Chris Charlton has completed an incredible 1,000-mile cycling challenge in just 11 days, raising more than £3,000 for YMCA Humber. Chris tackled 18,400 metres of climbing, riding between 80 and 125 miles every day, all whilst carrying everything he needs on his bike.

Chris said, “It was emotional, it was testing, it was physically demanding, it questioned my resilience and my strength and mental wellbeing and health.”

Chris cycled through Wales and Anglesey, passing landmarks including Menai Bridge, Llanberis Pass, Portmeirion, and the Mach Loop before returning to 21 Freeman Street.

Chris said, “there were many elements that made it a tricky ride; the rain going to my father-in-law’s grave, cycling a 6.2-mile climb through the Mach Loop, and the first leg because I was questioning whether I was doing the right thing.

What got me through the challenge was the people I met along the way – those who said hello, a cyclist rode alongside me for a while, a young girl raced me up a hill and beat me, and a child waved to me in her mum’s arms because she saw the flag with the YMCA logo on.”

So far Chris has raised over £3,000 including gift aid, all funds raised will support YMCA Humber’s work with young people and communities across North East Lincolnshire. Chris said, “the total has just grown throughout the challenge and the support from people throughout the route has been amazing. I have had some tears in my eyes when I have seen the amount go up.”

Kate Conway, Chief Executive at YMCA Humber said, “we'd like to thank Chris for choosing YMCA Humber and for his incredible dedication to our cause. We will make sure every penny raised goes to supporting vulnerable young people to belong, contribute and thrive!

It was fantastic to follow his progress over the 11 days, and even better to welcome him back to Freeman Street to celebrate the successful completion of Chris’s challenge.”

Chris wanted to thank “the whole of the YMCA team and the members who have given me support throughout the challenge.

My mum and dad, mother-in-law, friends and family away from my general working environment, and Havercroft Construction and Grant Bailey for sponsoring the ride and also giving me the time off to do the challenge itself.

The 6 lads from the Lindsey Road Cycling Club who joined me at Woodthorpe for the final push of 30 miles back to YMCA, and finally my partner Ceinwen and my daughter Everlyn, I would like to give them a big thank you for their support and being there for me."

There is still time to donate to Chris's Challenge: Help Chris Cycle 1,000 Miles for YMCA Humber - JustGiving

Chris's interview with YMCA Humber: