March is a month of determination, dedication, and distance for GfA head of technical, Paul Standley. He’s taking on the Cycle 200 Miles Challenge to support Cancer Research UK, an organisation whose vital work has helped to double cancer survival rates in the UK over the past 50 years. But for Paul, this challenge is deeply personal.
Paul’s decision to take part in the challenge was driven by recent personal experiences. He recently lost his dear father-in-law to cancer, a heartbreaking loss that left a profound impact. To add to this, a young colleague was diagnosed with an aggressive tumour just weeks ago. With cancer touching so many lives around him, Paul knew he had to do something to contribute to this crucial cause.
A passionate cyclist, Paul saw the Cycle 200 Miles Challenge in March and instantly knew it was the perfect way to make a difference. Combining his love for cycling with fundraising felt like a natural fit—and an opportunity to channel his grief and concern into action.
Cycling has been part of Paul’s life for as long as he can remember. Taught to ride by his dad, he soon progressed to BMX riding in his teenage years before dabbling in mountain biking. However, as often happens, life’s responsibilities took priority, and his hobby took a backseat for a while.
That all changed in his late 30s when he noticed a decline in his fitness. Determined to get back in shape, he picked up mountain biking again. By the time his 40th birthday rolled around, he treated himself to his first road bike—and he hasn’t looked back since!
Now, Paul loves nothing more than cycling with a group of friends or convincing his son to put down his football and join him for a ride (especially when there’s a sausage sandwich as a post-ride reward!). Living near the stunning Cotswolds, Malvern, Bredon Hill, and Clent, he has no shortage of scenic routes to explore. And when the opportunity arises, he loves escaping to Mallorca for a cycling holiday.
Braving the often-unforgiving British weather isn’t always easy, but Paul finds inspiration to get on his bike close to home. “My friend’s dad, who lives next door but one to where I grew up, turns 80 this year and is still cycling! Definitely something I aspire to. And if I can raise money for such a worthy cause while doing something I love, it’s a win-win.”
Paul is off to an impressive start, covering over 140 miles in just over eight hours of cycling. But he’s not stopping there—he’s determined to at least double the challenge distance by the end of March!
Every mile Paul cycle's is a step towards better prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer. If you’d like to support his incredible effort and help fund world-class research, you can donate via his Giving Page. Your contributions and messages of encouragement will go a long way in keeping him motivated throughout his journey.
Let’s cheer Paul on as he pedals towards his goal—keep going, Paul, you’ve got this!