Well, first part of our epic GM Fundraising Hope 66 cycle ride has been completed successfully. We’ve all made it safely to our hotel in Chicago.

It was with a great deal of excitement the group met at Heathrow Terminal 3 to check in bags, and crucially the bikes. The group consists of experienced riders, and a good selection of new recruits but very quickly the team are bonding.

The day has passed off without major catastrophe. A couple of the team were ticked off by our leader, Mr Morton, for checking in too quickly and missing the group photograph. And there was a delay once we arrived at the airport as the support team were delayed picking up the RVs. But this is minor stuff, and no doubt bigger challenges lie ahead

For now, though, it’s time for the serious matter of dinner, a few beers, further team bonding, and hopefully some decent sleep.

PS. BREAKING NEWS. Today we broke the £100,000 fundraising milestone for Hope 66. This is a massive achievement and credit to the hard work of the team. If you haven’t sponsored the team yet there’s still chance to do so at: http://www.justgiving.com/teams/hope66 Thanks!