What is LeJOG? And Why am I Riding It?

What is LEJOG?

No it is not some French form of exercise, LEJOG is in fact the British Classic End to End journey from Land's End, at the south western tip of mainland England to John O'Groats, at the north eastern tip of mainland Scotland. The journey is often shortened to LEJOG when riding from Land's End north and to JOGLE when riding south.



The shortest distance for LEJOG is approx. 874 miles on major arterial roads. Most people who undertake this adventure do so by taking a route away from these major roads, using minor roads and country lanes passing through many areas of outstanding natural beauty. This allow for an endless variety of routes and mileage and in turn the time required.

My planned LEJOG route is currently set to cover 965 miles in 13.5 days, starting on the evening of June 12th and ending on the 25th. I'll be riding this journey solo, giving me the flexibility to vary my route and take in sites and attractions as I choose, the only certainty will be the final destination for the day, as all my accommodation is already booked. With this flexibility I expect the total mileage to be just north of the 1000 mile mark at journey’s end.

Why?

I have been asked by family and friends why? And as it draws closer I have also asked myself  Why?Initially this was a personal challenge, a bucket list item. Having ridden a lot in the last 4 years completing several 100 milers and the C&O canal ride from Cumberland MD to Washington DC (185 miles in 3 days), this was the next step for me, a big step up in the mileage and time.

In addition to the personal challenge I have now added a sponsorship element, to raise money for the financial aid program at the Congressional Schools of Virginia in support of the emerging scholars program. More details can be found at http://www.congressionalschools.org/barnes-bicycle-ride.html

I plan on updating this blog regularly in the run up to my LEJOG with details of the planning and training that are going into this adventure and then to blog daily during the ride to keep everyone updated with my progress.

Simon