One Saturday in May, locals enjoying refreshments at Luz Beach café were taken by surprise as 25 perspiring cyclists in colourful kits arrived. Cold beers awaited them, marking the end of their ambitious journey from Lisbon to Lagos.
This event was the culmination of a seven-year dream that began on the 7.113 commuter train to London and covered a staggering 3,266 km. Each year, the group has tackled a different leg of the journey, starting from Long Crendon in Oxfordshire. Their travels included cycling from Oxfordshire to Paris in Year 1, and subsequently to Bordeaux, Bilbao, Santiago de Compostela, Porto and, finally, Lisbon before reaching the Algarve.
I caught up with the riders post-ride in Luz. Organiser Alex Koch de Gooryend explained, “Sami Hassan and I wanted a fitness challenge and so we roped in friends from our village. In 2017, we set off with 18 riders and a support crew member, Buzz. We raised over £20,000 for charity and decided to continue our journey. Having spent part of my childhood in Lagos, it was my dream to conclude our ride here.”
as my daughter had major spinal surgery at Great Ormond Street. However, the initial team raised £28,000, primarily for the hospital, which encouraged us to carry on.”
Over the years, the cyclists have traversed 3,266 km and ascended an impressive 36,820 metres, raising over £200,000 for various charities. Sami noted, “We are mostly working dads from Long Crendon, with a few from nearby villages. Due to work commitments, we aim to complete each leg in four days.”
Alex emphasised the ride’s mental health benefits. “The trip has become a mental detox. It’s easier for men to open up to others while cycling together, away from direct eye contact. Many struggle to admit their issues, so this offers a safe space to start conversations.”
This year, they supported Andy’s Man Club, a charity focused on men’s suicide prevention that facilitates peer-to-peer support groups. “We aim to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health through conversation,” Alex explained.
Sam added, “Completing these challenges gives us a sense of purpose. This event has evolved into an important time for meaningful discussions, particularly as many of us face personal challenges related to work, marriage or loss.”
A bystander from a nearby table approached to inquire about their journey. After learning about the cause, Anne Neill made a donation and shared, “My husband committed suicide, so I support initiatives aimed at reducing the stigma around mental health. I tell others that ‘life really does go on’,’’ and my silver lining has been finding Luz and all it offers.”
The cycling group has not only fostered fitness and friendship but also raised awareness and funds for mental health charities, including Andy’s Man Club. Maybe this story will inspire others to embark on a journey of their own, no matter how ambitious.
Did you know?
Men account for 75–80% of suicides, dying at a rate three times that of women in the UK, with nearly 12 men taking their lives each day. For help, remember: #ITSOKAYTOTALK.
Support their cause: If you’d like to contribute, visit: www.justgiving.com/page/lccc-andysmanclub-2025
