Well, we did it!

24th May 2010
A copy of a press release that I have just done:



Before the off in front of Blackpool Tower

Blackpool to Scarborough on a bike, and then to Borneo.
Knaresborough photographer John Minary has just completed a gruelling 144mile cycle from Blackpool to Scarborough on the hottest day of the year to raise funds for the charity Raleigh.



On a long pull up into the Pennines

John was partnered by local businessman David Crawford on the coast to coast cycle, which began at Blackpool Tower and took in the towns of Preston, Skipton, Knaresborough, and Malton before arriving at the fish quay in Scarborough.
John has been appointed as the official photographer for the charity on the forthcoming expedition to Sabah, in Borneo. The ride was to raise much needed funds for Raleigh.




Just about halfway there.


It took the pair 10hours of strenuous cycling in order to complete the challenging route which they did on Saturday 22nd May 2010, averaging at just over 14mph.
With temperatures soaring into the mid 20’s the pair faced the added challenge of the heat and taking in sufficient fluids whilst on the route. Fortunately they were accompanied throughout the long journey by Alan Eastern who drove a back up vehicle.


His contribution was vital in providing the very necessary support, as they suffered 4 punctures on the journey.
Said John Minary, “ I had my fingers crossed for some fine weather, but didn’t bargain for the heatwave, it really tested our stamina.”


He went onto to say, “This event was not only a way of raising some funds for the charity, it gave me a focus for much needed training to get myself fit for the trip. I didn’t quite bargain for the Equatorial weather, but it was a good test of performance under extreme conditions.”



Spot the relief on our faces!


Said David Crawford, “We trained long and hard to complete the ride, it is for a worthwhile cause and I wish John all the very best on his travels.”

John has received support from the Knaresborough Camera Club where he is the chair and from other friends who have all contributed to raising an amount which will be close to £2,000.

Said John “Its great that so many friends have contributed, and David and Alan’s contributions are themselves greatly appreciated. I’d also like to thank everyone, including my Hull based corporate sponsor, Book and Claim Ltd, who have donated half the total amount.”

Said John “I am hoping to capture some stunning images to share with everyone when I get back. Although I am missing feva this year, I am hoping that the pictures I take and the experiences that I will have will form the basis of an illustrated talk for next year”.