2026 Charity Fundraising - a sense of Deja Vu

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A challenge in aid of Cancer Research UK, for motorcyclists on cheap and inappropriate motorcycles to ride from Land’s End to John O'Groats in 24hrs on the longest day of the year. Bikes must have been bought for no more than £600.

In 2024 I did this challenge in Memory of Mary Seivier the first woman to have ever ridden a motorcycle round the world starting back in 1967.

I took a little over 26 hours to complete the trip so in 2026 I want to give it another go.

This year I'm remembering another inspirational friend and biker who I got to know through my involvement with another charity, Mental Health Motorbike.

David Martin sadly lost his fight in 2022 and the last time I saw him was at The Overland Event in that year not long before he sadly passed.  I was privileged to have been one of the pall bearers at Davids funeral on 21st October 2022.

When David was first diagnosed he was determined to fight and not let it beat him and he came up with the hashtag #getoutdostuff

David rode across the United States and many other memorable bike trips after his diagnosis, including riding from Lands End to John O'Groats.  His #getoutdostuff attitude and amazing spirit has inspired many and I hope to honour him by doing the ride this year.

It would seem that the number 21 is going to play a part with the ride taking place on the 21st June, Davids funeral was the 21st October so I'd like to try and complete the ride in 21 hours!

A tough ask I know but life isn't easy so why shouldn't we beat tough challenges.

https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/fishonamotobike-ldc2026

#getoutdostuff

This year I have thrown my name into the helmet to take part in The Longest Day Challenge, a motorcycle ride from Lands End to John O'Groats.  What sets this apart from other rides between these two landmarks is that it starts at first light on the Longest Day of the year, June 20th June - as it's a leap year this year, with the aim being to reach the destination before the end of the day.

This challenge has been running for 10 years and the route is always slightly different year on year and I first found out about it about 3 years ago but until this year haven't been able to fit it in around my other commitments.

And it's done!  Left Lands End (ish) at 4am on Thursday 20th June and arrived slightly tired, cold and damp at John O'Groats at 06:00 Friday 21st June.  Unfortunately due to road closures overnight at Spean Bridge and other unforeseen issues (more roadworks than clear roads on one stage!) with the route I didn't make the 24 hours.