On 9 July 2026 a group of scientists from the University of Oxford and University College London set off from the Department of Pharmacology in Oxford for what would become their toughest challenge yet: cycling approximately 130 miles to Stonehenge in Wiltshire and back over two days.
Riders: Fran Platt, Ahad Rahim, Danielle Taylor-te Vruchte, Kerri Wallom, Sophie Taylor-te Vruchte, Hsin Chen, Amy Geard, Michael Fiore, Rebecca Braine, Reuben Bush and Dave Smith. Support crew: Yuzhe Weng and Puravi Panda, travelling in their trusty Mini.
The route took them through some beautiful countryside, yet the biggest obstacle was the intense heat. Temperatures peaked at around 36°C, making every mile even more demanding. Apart from a few punctures along the way, the day went well, and at around 8:00pm everyone arrived safely at Stonehenge. By then, the combination of the distance and the extreme temperatures had left the whole team hot, tired and exhausted.
The following morning it was clear just how much the first day’s ride had taken out of both the riders and the bikes. Unfortunately, four riders were unable to continue, and several bikes were suffering from gear issues and punctures. At around 9:00am, the remaining six riders and the support team set off from the hotel near Stonehenge.
Once again, the heat made for difficult riding. Then, around halfway through the day’s route, disaster struck. A serious accident resulted in one of our riders sustaining an open fracture to their elbow and being taken to hospital. It was a frightening moment for everyone involved, but thanks to the quick response of those at the scene and the emergency services, they received the care they needed.
Despite everything, three determined riders completed the journey, arriving back in Oxford at around 7:30pm alongside the support team.
This year’s challenge truly lived up to the phrase “blood, sweat and tears.” As Dave reflected:
“…this year’s challenge truly lived up to the phrase ‘blood, sweat and tears.’ It tested every one of us in ways we could never have imagined, but it also demonstrated incredible determination, resilience and teamwork…a huge thank you to everyone who rode, supported, donated and cheered us on. We couldn’t have done it without you…here’s to recovering…and then on to next year’s challenge…”
We are very sorry to hear about the accident and sends its very best wishes for a full and speedy recovery to the injured rider. Congratulations go not only to the three riders who completed the challenge, but to every single person who took part. The determination, resilience and teamwork demonstrated throughout these two days reflect the very same qualities seen every day in those living with Niemann-Pick diseases and in the families who face its challenges with such courage.
The team has already raised £4,290.99 (+ £673.75 Gift Aid). The fundraising page remains open: https://www.justgiving.com/page/david-smith-7?utm_medium=FA&utm_source=CL
Thank you once again to Fran, Ahad, Danielle, Kerri, Sophie, Hsin, Amy, Michael, Rebecca, Reuben, Dave, Yuzhe, Puravi and everyone who supported them for their extraordinary commitment to NPUK. The difference their efforts will make for the organisation’s work and community is deeply appreciated.
Here’s to recovering… and then on to next year’s challenge.