A Volunteer’s Journey: Simon Takes on 1,500km to Support the Armed Forces Community

Simon is about to embark on an extraordinary challenge—cycling solo and unsupported from RAF Gibraltar to RAF Benson, covering a massive 1,500km in just 14 days. His goal? To raise £5,000 for Mission Motorsport, a charity close to his heart that supports service veterans through the power of motorsport.

Simon isn’t a veteran himself, but through his volunteer work with Mission Motorsport, he’s seen firsthand the incredible impact the charity has on those who’ve served. Now, Simon is pushing himself to the limit to help provide life-changing opportunities for veterans transitioning to civilian life.

Why Simon’s Ride? Why Mission Motorsport?

Simon’s journey with Mission Motorsport started in 2024, after a chance conversation with a friend. A lifelong car enthusiast, Simon was immediately drawn to the charity’s mission of helping veterans through motorsport. Since then, he’s been an active volunteer, working at events like the Race of Remembrance and helping organise veteran-focused initiatives at motorsport venues like Thruxton.

“The work Mission Motorsport does is truly inspiring,” Simon says. “I’ve seen how motorsport helps veterans rebuild their confidence, develop new skills, and find a sense of purpose after service. When I heard about Alex Robbins’ walk to Anglesey for the Race of Remembrance, it gave me the final push to set my own challenge—and what better way to do it than on two wheels?”

From Petrolhead to Pedal Power

Simon’s journey into cycling started after retiring from the petrochemical industry in 2020. With more time on his hands, he took up cycling and quickly found a new passion. “When I first started, I couldn’t ride more than five miles without needing a break,” Simon laughs. But that didn’t stop him. In 2022, he completed the Land’s End to John O’Groats ride—a gruelling 1,000-mile challenge across the UK.

“Completing LEJOG was a real milestone for me,” Simon reflects. “It gave me the confidence to take on bigger challenges. When I was in Gibraltar this March, I thought—why not cycle home? And that’s how this 1,500km ride was born.”

The Route: 1,500km for Veterans

Simon’s route will take him from RAF Gibraltar through Spain, ending with a ferry from Bilbao to Portsmouth, and then cycling the final stretch to RAF Benson. It’s a journey that will test his physical and mental limits, but Simon is determined to complete it to raise vital funds for Mission Motorsport.

“I’ve seen how motorsport gives veterans new opportunities—whether it’s through training, racing, or just being part of the community,” Simon says. “Now, I want to do my part to make sure that support continues.”

Why Your Support Matters

Simon’s challenge is about more than just cycling. It’s about helping veterans rebuild their lives and create new futures after service. Every penny raised will go towards Mission Motorsport’s programs, giving veterans the skills and support they need to thrive.

Here’s how your donations can help:

£50 will provide a day of motorsport training for a veteran, helping them develop new skills.
£100 will support a veteran’s participation in a racing event, giving them real-world experience.
£500 will help fund mentorship programs, providing veterans with career guidance and support.

By supporting Simon’s journey, you’re not just helping him achieve his goal—you’re directly contributing to the future of veterans who are finding new paths and new purpose through motorsport.

Join Simon on His Epic Challenge. Together, We Can Help Veterans Reach New Heights.

Donate to Simon's Fundraiser Here