A Kendal-born entrepreneur will complete a four-month charity challenge in his home town later this month.
By the time Dan Beaumont reaches Kendal Castle on Sunday, September 12, he will have cycled 10,000km and raised more than £6,000 for Mind Over Mountains, a mental health charity offering immediate and accessible support through therapeutic outdoor experiences.
Dan, 30, is inviting local residents to welcome him back to his hometown, where he began his mission in May this year to highlight the positive impact time in nature and adventure has on mental well-being.
After more than 100 days on the road, he is inviting keen cyclists to give him a final push with a 100km cycle from Skipton, in North Yorkshire, to the finish at Kendal Castle for approx. 6pm.
Mind Over Mountains runs events across the UK, with bursaries available to those with the most challenging lives.
Ranging from one-day to weekend retreats, their programmes bring together professionally guided hill-walking, mindfulness and time in the company of experienced coaches and counsellors.
Dan said: “I wholeheartedly believe in the healing power of nature for improving mental wellbeing. It’s clear that COVID-19 and the increased isolation alongside reduced access to our countryside has only exacerbated already rising mental health issues.”
Riding an average of 100km a day in all weathers, he has travelled fully self-sufficient with little more than a tent and cooking equipment, wild camping or staying with friends.
“Although this was meant to be a self-supported journey, I’ve formed the best and biggest team imaginable along the way. I wouldn’t have been able to do this journey without the help and random acts of kindness I’ve received from hundreds of strangers I’ve met from all corners of Britain,” he added.
He has been documenting the stories of the people encountered along the way, including TV personality Ben Fogle and world record-holding runner Nick Butter, which he hopes to turn into a book after finishing the journey.
Alex Staniforth, co-founder of Mind Over Mountains who lives in Kendal, added: “Dan’s epic journey has been a huge inspiration for so many and offered much-needed positivity during the pandemic. We’re incredibly proud of his fundraising, which will enable us to support those most in need and provide access to nature and the professional support that everyone deserves.”
To join his final bike ride on September 12, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/join-dan-beaumont-homecoming-tour-finale-tickets-168652021737
To support or follow Dan, visit his JustGiving Page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/danbeaumont
