Simon Martin

In 2005 I embarked on a route that would prove challenging and testing until the end. I rode from Beijing to Lhasa, Tibet. This was my first cycle touring experience and it was a steep learning curve. I travelled, with my brother, through amazing small communities and then climbed over the Himalayas, an experience I will never forget.

In 2007 I decided to ride the southern tier of the United States of America from Laguna Beach, California to Key West, Florida. Along the way I met an American who gave me a different perspective into the country, the people, and the ride. Bill became a friend for life. See http://www.ridingforadventure.com for the details of our journey.

Making the world pass slowly by is the joy of cycling. That’s why the opportunity to ride through diverse civilisations in southern Europe with EuRide08 is my next cycling adventure.

Lachlan McKenna

In the year 2000, during university, I paid my way by delivering parcels around Brisbane by bicycle. Becoming a bike courier was an eye opening experience. Not before had I cycled so extensively. I enjoyed the thrill of delivering documents to a tight deadline throughout the city and surrounding suburbs.

From a young age I’ve had a strong desire to participate in endurance activities. In 2007 I entered with a team in the Kokoda Challenge, a cross-country bushwalking team event where teams of 4 people trek a 96km course through the Gold Coast Hinterland within a 39 hour time limit. Despite all members powering through physical and mental barriers, our team, after 16 hours and 80Kms, had to pull out.

A return to cycling in 2008 is long overdue. The chance to ride with two amazing characters, spending time and learning the culture of beautiful countries is an opportunity not to miss.

Sam Armstrong

I've never toured before, but I’m no stranger to pedal power and I’ve always kept a steed close by. I’ve put away 800 odd kilometres cruising around Paris over the past couple of months on my trusty green single speed Peugeot. I love the agility, the speed, and especially riding with the traffic, but it will be a great pleasure to trade all that in for a sturdy tourer and some wide open spaces.

I've got enough french under my belt to chat with the locals and make fun of the other lads, and I'm really looking forward to diving into some spanish. With Simons touring experience and Lachlans quads of steel, I may well be tucking nicely into that slip-stream while we're riding, but when we stop, I might just come in handy after all.

Here's to what will be a fantastic journey with good mates, good laughs, challenges and great rewards!