Brian’s Sri Lanka Challenge Day 3: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

This year my annual charity bike challenge takes me to Sri Lanka. It will be a hard challenge with 457km of riding and numerous climbs over 6 days.

I am raising funds for The Openwork Partnership Foundation, who give grants to small local charities supported by the many members of the Openwork family, and Holding on letting Go, who give bereavement advice to children in KENT and SE London.

Please, please, please, help with a donation, however big or small, as anything you give will be used for these amazing causes. https://bit.ly/sponsorbriandownton2024

DAY 3 Wed 13 Nov: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Today we faced the toughest section of the challenge.

After an early breakfast at 6am, we transferred 25km to the town of Gampola. From here, we hopped into the saddle and began our cycle through some of the finest tea estates in the world.

We cycled inclines right from the start with some challenging climbs. By lunch, we had cycled only 30km, despite the early start, but had climbed nearly 700 metres.

After lunch, we began the final 20km, ascending almost 1100 metres to the top, where we were rewarded with stunning views over the tea plantations below.

The last 10km were in pouring rain and mist, but despite no views, the team made it to the top after an exceptionally hard day. We cycled 57km, climbed 1,756 metres and were in the saddle nearly 6 hours!

Keep your eye out for tomorrow’s update.

Brian