Paul and Simon hardly know each other. In fact, Simon thinks Paul is a bit of a ‘*@&%’. So, they’re both surprised when, after a few drinks in the pub one evening, they agree to take on Britain’s most famous cycling challenge together – 900 miles from Land’s End to John o’ Groats. Especially since they are both novice cyclists.
Somehow, they persuade their partners, Bek and Kirsty, to give up their summer holidays to drive the length of Britain twice in the role of support crew. But, when the car breaks down driving to the start-line, the omens don’t look good for a smooth ride. What follows is a hilarious but life-affirming adventure full of mishaps, arguments, and a bit too much alcohol on Simon’s part, as they journey up and down, through the best and worst that Britain has to offer – headwinds against them all the way.
All Downhill From Here tells the story of their journey, how it sowed the seeds for a lifelong friendship, and many more big adventures. Based on these experiences, Paul has included a section full of useful advice and insights for anyone new to long-distance cycling and wanting to conquer the famous Land’s End to John o’ Groats bike ride, or other similar challenges.
Over de auteur
Paul Waters is a fitness professional and adventure enthusiast. He has worked in the fitness industry for 20 years, has trained thousands of people to become Personal Trainers, and written numerous courses on the subject for major training companies.
Exercise, running and cycling in particular, is his passion as it allows him to combine his two loves of fitness and nature. He has taken on numerous big challenges over the years. He has run numerous marathons and one ultra-marathon to date. On the bike, he has cycled Land’s End to John o’ Groats, London to Paris (in 24 hours), climbed Britain’s Three Peaks and cycled the 450 miles in between, and ascended the three routes to the top of Mont Ventoux in a single day.
Most recently, he and his partner Lou cycled over 2000 miles around Britain in an attempt to pedal through all of the National Parks on the British mainland. The attempt was halted because of the coronavirus, but that won’t stop them from completing it as soon as possible.
He lives just outside of Bristol with Lou and their two cats, Basil and Mog. Together, they enjoy tending to their allotment, spending time in nature, and eating Lou’s delicious homemade baking.