Father and son cycle 900km from France to Spain to raise money for three charities

A father and son have completed an extraordinary cycling challenge from the French Pyrenees to Camposol, raising funds for three local charities supporting people across the community. Paul Johnson, who owns a property in Camposol, and his son Ashley, a paramedic who lives with Paul in Jersey, set off from Laruns in southwestern France on Tuesday, October 20, cycling approximately 900 kilometres to Spain.

Father and son take on grueling 900km cycling challenge

The pair undertook the journey unaided on gravel bikes, carrying their own equipment and sleeping on the sides of roads along the way. Their challenge tested them physically and mentally, but their determination was driven by a common goal: raising money for FAST Camposol, MABS and Forget Me Not, three established and well-known local charities.

Three local charities to share funds equally

The funds raised will be divided equally between the three organisations, which provide support to vulnerable neighbours in and around the Camposol community. MABS supports people affected by cancer and their families; FAST Camposol provides emergency assistance and support to local people in need; and Forget Me Not offers help and respite to people living with Alzheimer’s and opportunities for their unpaid carers to rest.

Paul and Ashley said they wanted to give something back to the community through a challenge that would push them out of their comfort zones. They also confirmed that their own expenses for completing the ride would not be taken from the money raised for the charities.

Seven days of determination and community support

Over seven incredible days, residents followed the pair’s progress through photographs and daily updates, sharing in the highs, lows and lighter moments of their journey. The challenge brought together the endurance of a long-distance cycle ride and the bond between a father and son, with encouragement from their friends and family and determination helping them keep moving towards their destination.

Supporters welcome cyclists at Camposol finish line

The finish line was located at Bridie Murphy’s Bar in Camposol, where supporters could welcome them after their journey from France. The fundraising campaign invited people to donate or share the appeal to help the charities continue their work.

For this father-and-son team of athletes, every kilometre travelled represented an opportunity to support others and give back to a community close to their hearts.