The couple, from Davochfin in Dornoch, tackled the "Legends of the Alps" Challenge, organised by Discover Adventure Ltd, a firm which specialises in fundraising trekking and cycling events.

Over three days, from 27th to 29th June, they cycled around 180 miles from the pretty French town of Bonneville to the market town of Bourg d'Osains.

The distance may have been relatively short, but the ascents were huge with the route winding through the heart of the French Alps.

The Grants tackled six climbs, including two of the most renowned Tour d' France ascents - the Col du Galibier and the Alpe d'Huez.

And, although they had trained hard in the months leading up to the Challenge, they still found it a very tough experience.

It was made even more difficult by the hot weather, with dehydration proving to be a real problem.

And it was particularly hard for Marjory who was cycling with a chest infection.

Marjory and Stuart Grant.

Said Stuart: "We had three days of six tough climbs in temperatures often in the mid 30s.

"The one exception was the Alpe D'Huez where we cycled through a thunder and lightning storm and the road was like a river.

"Particularly hard was the second day when we climbed 25k in the morning and 15k in the afternoon in temperatures around 34C."

But he added: "Tough as it was, the experience was great, unforgettable, fantastic - all of these adjectives and more.

"We had the satisfaction of not only reaching the top of each climb in an area of breathtaking scenery, but also knowing our efforts were for such a worthwhile cause."

The Grants have raised over £8000 to date but still have some events to come, so hope to exceed that total by the end of the summer.

"We'd like to thank everyone who attended our fundraising events," said Stuart, "and also everyone who bought or sold our quiz sheets or made a donation.

Printer friendly version

Email this article to a friend

Bookmark this

---