Arch to Arc

A rough map of our route

In celebration of the 2012 Summer Olympics coming to London I completed a 300-mile triathlon from Marble Arch, London to the Arc de Triomphe, Paris.

I was joined in the challenge by three other adventurers, Jonny Muir, Will Surman and Nick Yates. Together we raised more than £2,500 for Kith and Kids and The Stroke Association.

Starting at Marble Arch on the day of the Olympic Triathlon on August 4th we ran in relay to Dover – a total of 28-odd miles each. After a restless night’s sleep we started our 4-man row the next day, making the crossing in 7 hours and 26 minutes. It wasn’t easy. Definitely, the most challenging endurance event I’ve ever done. A mental as well as physical battle to keep going and row together as a team. We had little time to celebrate upon our arrival in Calais as we needed to eat, sleep and recover for the long 186 or so mile cycle to Paris. We arrived two days later, on August 7th, at the Arc de Triomphe.

Outdoor Fitness magazine ran a feature on us in their December 2012 issue, which you can see below. I’ve also produced a short video of the adventure and you can read a write-up from Jonny Muir. Finally, below are some photos (click to enlarge) from the trip, including some painful looking blisters on Nick’s hands from the row. Thank you to everyone who sponsored us and a special thank you to Nick’s father, Steve Yates, who supported us with enthusiasm and supplies all the way to Paris.

Setting off from Marble Arch in London

Finding our way to Dover

Rowing across the English Channel

Our route across the English Channel

Reaching the French coast at last!

Evidence of a tough row

Finishing at Arc de Triomphe

A write-up of our challenge in Outdoor Fitness magazine, from the December 2012 issue