Queen Of The Road!

Superfit Gina Harris has become the oldest woman to cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats - at the age of 82!

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As the iconic John O'Groats signpost came into view, a huge smile of relief spread across my face. I'd done it! Twenty-eight days after setting off from Land's End in Cornwall, I'd become the oldest woman to cycle from one end of Britain to the other.

There were many times drenched from torrential rain and clinging to my handlebars through strong, gusty winds - where I genuinely doubted I'd make it, but raising money for a good cause is a great motivation to keep going.

Unfurling my fundraising banners for photos, there was even a wave of sadness that it was all over. After 960 miles, through 12 counties, I'd gotten used to the open road and a new adventure every day.

It was during lockdown that I first learned of the appalling rise in domestic abuse. I couldn't stop thinking about the continual put-downs and violence that women and children are subjected to. I donated to Women's Aid and Refuge but longed to do more. These charities were doing crucial work on very limited funds and support.

I remember saying, "I wish I could help," and my son Pascal said, "Well, Mum, you could do a crazy stunt."

Inspired by my love for cycling, we came up with the idea of cycling from Land's End to John O'Groats. At 82, I'd break the record set by 81-year-old Mavis Paterson, from Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, in 2019.

I've never raced or taken it seriously. I'm a long-distance cyclist who plods along for pleasure. I used to go out with a friend very early in the morning and come back with a manic grin on my face. Pascal was so inspired he took it up himself.