Paul Bowman - ETAPE Loch Ness 2023

ETAPE Loch Ness is a cycle sportive taking place around the iconic body of water of Nessie fame. The route follows a 66-mile/106-km stretch, offering the chance to cycle on traffic free roads. The route starts and finishes in the Highland capital of Inverness, offering 900m of ascent. Starting by the riverside at Bught Park, Inverness and finishing by Eden Court, Bishops Road, Inverness.

Back in February, Paul got in touch with the charity stating that he'd like to take on the challenge and fundraise for Spinal Injuries Scotland

"16 months ago, I came off a horse and fractured a spinal vertebra in two places and tore my hip flexor. Other than suffering discomfort if I overdo things and having discomfort when running, I have fully healed. Others have not been as fortunate as I, therefore I am doing the Loch Ness Etape to raise some money for Spinal Injuries Scotland so that others benefit from their support."

We are so thankful to Paul for his monumental effort. Paul has raised an incredible £385 so far, with the total still going up.

The ride took place on Sunday 23rd April and Paul managed to complete in a time of 5 hours, 2 mins and 50 seconds! go Paul!!

"Thank you all very much for all your support and donations. The weather wasn’t the best but that didn’t put a dampener on it. I had it on my mind from the start that I would go the same pace all the way and I am pleased to say I managed to do that. The 66 miles took me 5 hrs I had 3 pit stops about 10 mins each My last stop was at the bottom of the hill at Dores before the assent 10 miles from the finish line, this is when I new I could put the hammer down as I new I had a bit left in the tank, to my surprise I’m not stiff today!!"

Would you like to give it a go next year? To register your interest for 2024 see link below

www.etapelochness.com