M2L 2025: More Than a Ride

This was my second year riding Manchester to London for Ambitious about Autism, and somehow, it might have even exceeded last year’s experience.

I started my M2L weekend early—riding solo from Norfolk to Manchester on Friday. It was partly for the extra challenge of riding Sunday with fatigue in my legs, but also to avoid the overwhelm of train travel, which I often find more mentally draining than a full day on the bike.

The day was hot and beautiful (mostly!), taking me from the flatlands of Norfolk to the climbs of the Peak District. With just my own company, it gave me space to reflect and mentally prepare for the challenge ahead. My only mistake? Not hydrating enough. I could feel the heat getting to me—something I’d pay for later.

When I arrived in Manchester that afternoon, I found the contrast of the peace of solo riding to a busy city hard. After 10 hours of calm and quiet riding, I was suddenly surrounded by noise, people, and the chaos of the city. My biggest challenge wasn’t the bike though—it was leaving the hotel room to get food. I sat frozen for hours on the end of the bed, trying to will myself outside. The contradiction didn’t escape me: I could ride across the country, but walking 20 metres to eat felt impossible.

But this is exactly why I ride for Ambitious about Autism. Because I’m not alone in these struggles—and many others face far greater challenges than me. That night, my biggest win was managing to get the food I needed!

On Saturday, Mark arrived by train to meet me—which made city navigation far easier—and the rest of the day was about recovery: food, rest, registration, and finding quiet spaces whenever possible. As with any big event, sleep was scarce. Between the nerves, the heat, anxiety, I didn’t get enough. But hey—on some ultras, five hours feels like a lie-in!

The Ride

My wave started at 5:28am. I got there early, nervous about the pace of my group. I Still wasn’t 100% recovered from the ride up and adjusting to riding with strangers after so much solo time is always hard. Getting out of Manchester was full of stop-starts, but soon we were rolling through the stunning Peak District. Conditions were warm, with a head/crosswind—not ideal, but far from the worst.

I drifted in and out of groups throughout the day, and sometimes riding solo, until about halfway through, Mark and I were caught by a lovely bunch of riders who took us in. They knew each other well, and I later found out they had raised an astonishing amount of money. A lot of respect to them—and huge thanks!

I had so many amazing conversations during the ride. I met riders with autistic family members, autistic riders themselves, and others just riding to support the cause. We spoke about challenges, how much support and awareness is important, personal stories. Sharing my own journey—something that once felt impossible—now feels empowering.

Just after lunch, I started to crash. I was starting to struggle, I felt sick, the heat from Friday catching up with me. I wasn’t pulling on the front anymore—I didn’t have it in me. I was so grateful for a group that understood, that didn’t pressure and I was able to enjoy being with.

We arrived in London around 9pm to cheers, claps, and celebration outside Rapha HQ. It was a lovely welcome. Seeing old faces, meeting new ones, and seeing everyone celebrate their achievements was a great end to a long day.

Dan Lloyd, riding M2L for the first time, raised a staggering amount for Ambitious about Autism. He took the time to say hello to me both at the start and finish. As someone who struggles to approach new people, I really appreciated that gesture. (Also—his speed! He was probably finished before I even sat down for lunch!)

The Aftermath

That night, and the next day, I paid for the heat. I barely slept, and could hardly move without feeling sick. I’ve never reacted to the heat like this before, and it was a hard lesson! My plan to cycle home? Scrapped. I spent the day doing the only thing I could: drinking water and resting. But I was so grateful to have been able to complete the ride at all.

What M2L Really Means

Once again, M2L reminded me that this event is about far more than just the miles. It’s about a community of people who care—who are willing to push their limits to support the next generation of autistic children and young people.

220 miles in a single day is no small feat. Every rider gives their time, their energy, their effort—not just on the day, but in the months of training beforehand. And they do it for something bigger than themselves.

If sharing my story—if being open—helps even one young person know they’re not alone, then it’s all worth it.