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75-year-old Ripon cyclist completes epic birthday challenge

Tuesday, 23 December 2025 06:15

Moonglu Cycling Club set off on Nigel Bower's (centre) 75th 'Big Ride' of 2025.

A member of Moonglu Cycling Club has marked his 75th birthday year by completing an ambitious endurance challenge involving long-distance cycling rides across the UK and abroad.

Nigel Bower, who is based in Ripon, set himself the goal of completing 75 Gran Fondo rides during his 75th year.

A Gran Fondo, an Italian term meaning “big ride”, typically refers to a cycling route of more than 60 miles.

Nigel completed his final ride on Sunday (21st December), setting off from Ripon on a 66-mile route.

He was accompanied by members of Moonglu Cycling Club as well as his son, Nick.

The achievement brings Nigel’s total distance for the year to approximately 5,300 miles, with more than 200,000 feet of climbing.

This elevation gain is equivalent to climbing over seven times the height of Mount Everest.

While most of the rides were centred around the Ripon area, Nigel continued the challenge while on holiday, completing a ride of more than 60 miles in Greece.

When asked about taking on the challenge, Nigel said:

“Thank you for the support from the members of Moonglu who have accompanied me on many of these rides.”

Moonglu club secretary Niel Dunkley added:

“Nigel represents what Moonglu really stands for- cycling for fun, with friends and pushing ourselves to achieve more than we may believe.”

Nigel’s accomplishment is not the only notable performance among the club’s older members. Fellow Moonglu rider Rob Wilkins finished fifth in the 70–74 male category at the UK National Gravel Bike Championships.

Moonglu Cycling Club is open to new members, with annual individual membership priced at £15.

Prospective members are able to take part in two trial rides before deciding to join. Further information is available via the club’s website at https://www.moonglucc.club/.

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