Cycling To The Copenhagen Climate Conference: Update
When Blike agreed to cycle to Copenhagen with Christian Aid for the UN Climate Conference (COP-15) we were a bit worried. Don’t get us wrong, we think climate change is a serious issue and we wish the politicians well in a getting a deal that’s good for the planet – we just weren’t sure what 28 cyclists were going to achieve.
But after two days with the group who have committed their free time to this mad mission, we’re fairly sure they’ll make a big noise in Denmark’s capital.
The group ranges in age from 15 to 72 which includes students, vicars, teachers and even ex-bankers; the only thing they’ve got in common is the fact that they care about climate change enough to cycle their way through a foreign land.
We arrive at COP-15 on Saturday and join with thousands of others from Christian Aid all calling for Climate Justice. Blike will be riding in on a Focus Corrente Courier bike – new for 2010 – and so far this machine has eaten up the miles.
With a camera, a laptop and all of Blike’s clothes stuffed in to the panniers the bike is still light, comfortable and cruises up inclines with ease.
Blike’s not alone on this trip and riding the new Focus Hybrid is Ben. After two days and 110 miles of cycling, Ben’s remembering why he should have done some training before taking on the ride.
The deep pain in his groin is a constant reminder that he hasn’t ridden a bike since he was 17. He’s 25 now. He’s been lucky, the bike he has is top quality and the flat terrain of Denmark is proving no problem. It’s just his sore arse that is causing the trouble.
The Christian Aid cyclists don’t know if their efforts will make any difference, but they’ve had a bloody good time getting here so far and nearly raised £50 grand in the process. Help them out if you want by clicking here.
Or, if you want to follow the group’s twitter just click here
Wiggle kindly lent Blike the Focus bike’s and dhb cycling gear for the trip to Copenhagen