Linda & Lee’s 30-Mile Tour de Moor Adventure
Carn Runner Linda and her husband Lee took on the 30-mile Tour de Moor challenge in support of St Luke’s Hospice, Plymouth — and what a day it turned out to be. For Linda, more used to pounding the roads with her Carn Runners clubmates, the event was an exciting change of pace. For Lee, who isn’t a runner but is always up for a challenge, it was an opportunity to join forces with his wife for a cause close to their hearts.
Starting from Yelverton Airfield, the Tour de Moor is famous for its tough climbs, muddy tracks, and unpredictable weather. It’s a charity ride that draws hundreds each year, and this September Linda and Lee lined up to see if they had what it took to conquer Dartmoor’s rolling landscape.
A nervous start and last-minute drama
The pair had an early wake-up call — alarms ringing at 6am, ready to be on site for the 7:30am check-in. Nerves were high, with more than a few “nervous wees” between them before the start. But then came a moment of panic: Linda’s brakes weren’t feeling right. A quick trip to the mechanics confirmed her instincts were correct — they needed fixing.
While the last-minute repair delayed their start, it also meant they were the very last cyclists to leave the airfield. Far from putting them off, it gave them the determination to push hard and make up ground.
Mud, mishaps and flapjacks
Early into the ride, adjustments had to be made to Linda’s saddle height. Shortly after, she took a tumble into a muddy puddle. Fortunately, the only casualty was a dirty glove and a bruised ego — she laughed it off and kept pedalling.
The route stretched out across Dartmoor, with its breathtaking views balanced by relentless hills. Around the 20km mark, riders were rewarded with a welcome water stop. Spirits lifted even higher when they reached Princetown, where the legendary flapjacks and bananas were waiting, courtesy of volunteers. The boost of sugar and encouragement was just what they needed as the sweepers began urging riders back onto the course.
Digging deep on Dartmoor’s hills
The toughest miles came in the latter stages. Dartmoor is not known for forgiving gradients, and the climbs just kept coming. But this is where grit — and a good pasty — came into play. Fueled by flapjack, banana and pastry power, the couple managed to clock five miles in just 26 minutes, flying along and overtaking other riders.
It was at this point Linda had a moment of recognition: “I do cycling — I’m a runner,” she told another rider, to which he replied, “I think you are now!” It was a turning point — not just about completing the miles, but about embracing the spirit of the event and realising they belonged out there.
The final push to the finish
Two miles from the finish, temptation appeared in the form of a pub packed with fellow riders. But Linda and Lee kept their focus, riding on towards the airfield. The final approach was a special moment, with the couple and their friends cycling four-abreast into the finish funnel. In a show of sportsmanship, the others let Linda ride in first.
They weren’t the last back — “happy days,” as Linda put it — and were soon celebrating with medals, crisps, water, and a well-deserved beer.
Supporting St Luke’s Hospice
Behind the laughs, mud, and aching arms was the real reason for the ride: raising funds for St Luke’s Hospice, Plymouth. The hospice provides specialist care for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families, and events like the Tour de Moor are crucial for fundraising.
Linda and Lee’s JustGiving pages remain open for another two weeks, giving friends, family, and supporters more time to add to the total raised. Every pound makes a difference to a charity that relies heavily on community support. You can donate on JustGiving here.
A challenge to remember
Linda summed it up best when she said, “to say we ache is an understatement” — and it wasn’t their legs that suffered most, but shoulders and arms. Still, the aches were more than worth it for the sense of achievement and the impact on such an important cause.
We’re incredibly proud of Linda and Lee for taking on this challenge together. Their determination, humour, and team spirit shine through their story, and we know their fundraising will go a long way in helping St Luke’s Hospice continue its invaluable work.
