Mick Ives can definitely be described as a man on a mission.
Back in 2005, this 81-time Championship winner became the first rider to ride the Tour de France route, solo.
He is also the only British racer to race both Road and Cyclo Cross events every single year without a break for over 60 years – his whole career!
This year, at the age of 77, he decided to ride the route of the Giro di Italia (3,600km).
We talked to him to find out how and why he does it.
Tell us about the ride. How did it go?
It was such a special experience, only a handful of riders have done it, so to have completed it at the age of 77 is something I’m incredibly proud of.
That said, it had its ups and downs – including potholes, problems with our support vehicle and riding down a dual carriageway which it turns out, I wasn’t meant to be riding on! That was quite hairy.
Why do you do it?
Well, I’ve always liked a challenge! After everything I’ve achieved in my cycling career I thought it was appropriate.
I also love supporting charities which are close to my heart. There are a lot of people out there, many of them children, who aren’t as fortunate as myself. So if I can help them in any way, I feel like I’ve at least given something back.
I was recently named Barnardo’s Cycling Ambassador which makes me so proud.
Do you think you’ll stop any time soon?
I’m not sure – my heart says “carry on” but my family says “stop!”. Either way, I’m really proud to have completed this challenge so late in what’s been an incredible career. Maybe I’ll stop once I reach 90…
Mick is head of Jewson M.I. racing. If you’ve got the cycling bug and want to join Mick in raising funds for Barnardo’s you can join the Tour de Jewson happening on the week of 25th September. Just email [email protected] for more details.
