Intrepid cyclists raise money for EdUKaid (From Salisbury Journal)

Intrepid cyclists raise money for EdUKaid

10:06am Thursday 24th July 2008 in

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BLAZING heat, rough terrain, dangerous wildlife and the threat of bandits did not deter an intrepid group of cyclists as they rode 343 miles through Tanzania raising money for Salisbury- based charity EdUKaid along the way.

Former Bishop Wordsworth's pupils Michael Strain and Richard Moore, both 25, joined friends Ross Montagne and David Draisey for the six-day ride from Dar Es Salaam to the charity's headquarters in Mikindani.

Their route took them along dirt tracks, across deserts and through an area commonly known as Bandit Row where violent robbers have been known to attack western travellers.

"We had to clear that section as quickly as possible as we would have been an easy target for them," said Michael.

"It was quite a stressful part of the route as we had to carry the bikes for long stretches through the deep sand and repeatedly fell off."

The adventurous cyclists faced a few unexpected challenges when the spokes on Michael's rear wheel shattered and their support vehicle broke down.

A badly fitting replacement wheel and some emergency repairs slowed the team down as they battled with the hilly terrain in 36 degree heat.

The cyclists stayed in basic accommodation but one home comfort was a game pie taken all the way to Africa from the Victoria and Albert pub in Netherhampton thanks to chef Taylor Scott who drove the support vehicle with Tim Dench from EdUKaid.

"The idea for the ride came to me last year while I was cycling the New Forest," said Michael, who is from Whiteparish and previously worked as a volunteer teacher with the charity.

"It was very gruelling, Tanzania is a bit more hilly than we thought but it was a fantastic experience.

"The people we met thought it was hilarious when four blokes in Lycra cycled by - they would almost collapse laughing at us."

Richard, who is from Ringwood, added: "It was a barrel of laughs but incredibly physically draining.

"The road was pretty bad and the accommodation meant we got limited sleep."

The cyclists' efforts have raised £5,500 for EdUKaid, which supports schools in the Mtwara region of southern Tanzania.

The charity sends volunteer teachers to the area and provides books, resources, sexual health education and teacher training.

If you would like to sponsor the cyclists visit their website www.justgiving.com/darmikbikechallenge