Fife cyclist rides up and down East Lomond hill 41 times in ‘Everesting’ challenge for MS Society

Richard Sanderson aimed to ride up East Lomond until the accumulated elevation gain exceeded the height of Mount Everest, which he achieved after 40 laps – although he lost count and ended up doing 41.

“It’s a challenge and a bit out there,” Richard said.

“I thought going up and down the hill would be a good idea. It was about 115 miles up and down the same hill. It’s the hardest ride I’ve ever done.

“The hardest bit was in the middle – the graveyard shift.”

As if the challenge of cycling repeatedly up and down the hill was not hard enough, Richard also suffered two punctures around the half-way mark.

Thankfully, the 34-year-old had the support of his wife, who stayed at the top of the hill throughout the day to provide help.

A few members of the Kinross Cycling Club, of which Richard is a member, also popped along to show their support, with a couple even taking part in the final few laps.

“As soon as I crossed the 20,000ft mark, I started to count down,” Richard said.

“It was easier then. I did the last couple of laps with a couple of cyclists. I just found a new lease of life.”

The cycling challenge is just the latest one Richard has taken part in to raise funds for the MS Society.

Richard’s sister suffers from the disease, and for years he has organised unique cycling challenges to raise funds, usually riding a circuit around Fife in the shape of the letters, MS. He has also cycled a route in the shape of a Christmas tree in the past.

This challenge has raised more than £1500 already for the charity. If you would like to make a donation, visit the website – www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ms-everesting-east-lomond.