The 2009 London to Athens Epic was more than just a cycling adventure – it was the beginning of something much bigger. Spanning a massive 4,000 km, this journey became the start of 25000spins, an organisation dedicated to combining cycling and charity to make a real difference.
The journey kicked off on July 22, 2009, with Craig Shipton and 20 other cyclists, a support vehicle, and a film crew setting out from London. Our mission? To make a difference to others with a goal of raising 25000 pounds. We also had our sights set on Paris in time to catch the grand finale of the Tour de France. This part of the trip was especially exciting, knowing we’d be cycling through France with a group of like-minded individuals, all raising money for children in need. Five days of touring, camaraderie, and purpose – it was an experience I’ll never forget.
After Paris, the adventure continued as I (Craig) headed towards Geneva, pedaling through the majestic Swiss Alps. Along the way, I was joined by my friends Naomi and Trent. Together, we cycled from Paris to Switzerland and onto Venice, facing both the beauty and the challenges of the Alps. There were days when Trent and I had to cycle into the night to ride far enough to meet Naomi, who was traveling by train to catch up with us. It was tough, but it created a bond and a sense of determination that made the journey even more rewarding. Once we reached the Dolomite mountains, we descended into Venice, where our paths parted. From there, I continued on to Croatia, taking a well-deserved break for a week of sailing to regain my strength before the final stretch. The final leg of the ride took me down the Croatian coast, through Montenegro, Albania, and finally into Greece. By September 25, 2009, we had completed the journey and reached Athens – exhausted, exhilarated, and proud. Along the way, there were plenty of highs and lows. From being thrown into a Croatian jail for crashing my bike to riding down the Champs-Élysées with my fellow cyclists, every moment was an adventure. But it wasn’t just about the physical challenge; it was about pushing through adversity, raising funds for a great cause, and experiencing the world in a way few ever do. That journey laid the groundwork for 25000spins an organissation that now brings together cyclists from all over to challenge themselves and raise money for causes that matter. It all started with a dream, a bike, and a group of passionate riders who believed that cycling could make a difference. The 2009 London to Athens Epic was just the beginning, and the ride continues today. Join us, and let’s keep spinning for a cause. Our first ride raised over $70,000 AUD for people in poverty.
Highlights
Two of the standout riders on the 2009 London to Athens Epic were Naomi and Trent, whose dedication and teamwork played a crucial role in the success of the journey. Naomi, with her unwavering spirit, tackled the Alps and the stunning Italian landscapes with grace, while Trent’s resilience was evident as he pushed through long days of cycling, often riding into the night to catch up with Naomi, who was traveling by train. Together, they embodied the essence of the ride—overcoming challenges, supporting each other, and embracing the adventure. Their commitment to the cause and each other made them an inspiring part of the team.
