Russell chases the sun in memory of father in law
Thursday 30 July 2026
Russell Bridges shares his experience of taking on this year’s Chase the Sun South bike ride, in memory of his father in law.
Cancer is happening right now. It doesn't discriminate and can take people at any age, as I have sadly learnt over the years with many members of my own family.
That’s why, on 20 June 2026, I took on Chase the Sun South – an annual cycling event where riders pedal across England in a diverse cross-section of city, country and history. Starting in the Thames estuary, the 205-mile route bisects south London, bridging the Thames onto Sir Bradley Wiggins’ Olympic time trial route.
The route moves on to green country lanes, quaint villages, and the lush Vale of Pewsey, climbing the Mendip hills, descending the breathtaking Cheddar gorge, finally arriving on the seafront at Weston-Super-Mare in Somerset. The aim of this challenge is to set off at sunrise and arrive at the finish before sunset.
What a fantastic event it was! There were so many highs throughout the day, with a few lows as fatigue and tiredness inevitably set in. Covering 207 miles with around 9,518 ft of climbing made it a real challenge, but one I’m incredibly proud of. Even better, I managed to beat the sunset with about six minutes to spare!
The fundraising has gone better than I could have ever wished for, all in support of a charity that means so much to me in Bowel Cancer UK. We sadly lost my father-in-law to bowel cancer in 2021, and cancer in general has taken too many of my family members and good friends over the years. My first real experience of loss came when I lost my mum at just 33, when I was only 13 – something that stays with you forever.
A huge thank you to Chase the Sun, Bowel Cancer UK, and most importantly to all the family and friends who took the time to support and donate. It truly means the world.
Now it’s time for the next challenge – I’ll be stepping up training for part two of my Double Fundraising Challenge: a 5km open water Dock to Dock swim in London’s Royal Victoria Dock this September. Time to get wet!
“When you feel like quitting, remember why you started.”
