The final run – London to Paris Bike Ride Part 4

Yesterday was the last day of the ride from London to Paris. Aching legs pedalled from Beauvais as the rain came down. An early vicious climb brought the recently eaten breakfast uncomfortably high up the oesophagus.

Day 4 was more leisurely than the previous rides, with the trip's organisers encouraging stops at the tabacs to slow progress. Some riders made extended stops and had to be rounded up by our van drivers before lunch.

The people on the ride have been great and you get many snippets of conversation with those you pass and who pass you. As you might have seen from previous blogs, my ride has raised money for Help for Heroes as part of Honister Capital's pledge to donate £100k. It is an excellent cause but there are many others. Talking to riders, what's clear is that for some the ride into Paris is an emotional one. They represent charities which have helped support and cure friends or family, and those where a cure has sadly not been possible.

The last few miles into Paris is a fantastic experience. The peloton of 138 cyclists (only one didn't finish) make an inspiring site as they cut through the city dressed in the same blue shirts. The Paris traffic, notoriously impatient and often plain aggressive, give way to the group and beep horns in support. As we ascend a short climb up to L'arc de Triomphe locals enjoying coffee in the ubiquitous cafe bars that line the pavements shout and clap applause. And then the Eiffel Tower stretches up above us as we cross the Seine to finish the 300 mile journey.

Thanks to all the friends, family and colleagues who sponsored me. If you've not then there's still time. Please click here.

Miles 300. Bananas 17. Cereal bars - I will probably never eat again! Flies 3.