Ride to Rio in tribute to Jane Tomlinson
A decade ago, the late Jane Tomlinson CBE was about to embark on her biggest ever challenge, an exhausting 4,200-mile ride across America.
A decade ago, the late Jane Tomlinson CBE was about to embark on her biggest ever challenge, an exhausting 4,200-mile ride across America.
Inspired by her remarkable courage, this summer, Jane’s husband Mike will take on his own momentous challenge - by cycling over 3,000 miles from the UK to Brazil.
Mike Tomlinson will be joined in the epic adventure by a team of supporters including ex-Rugby League professionals Keith Senior and Paul Highton as they journey from London’s Olympic Stadium to the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
Setting off on June 27th and cycling some 90 miles a day over 6 weeks, the team aim to arrive in time for the Rio Olympics Opening Ceremony on 4th August.
The challenge marks the 10th anniversary of Jane’s remarkable Ride Across America, which was to be her final challenge before her untimely death from cancer aged just 43.
Jane made headlines across the world by taking in a series of epic challenges from marathons to Ironman to cycling from Rome to Home. Her Ride Across America was to be her most ambitious challenge covering 4,200 miles over 10 weeks of cycling.
Throughout the journey, Jane’s health was deteriorating and whilst battling the heat she was also contending with a broken pelvis. Somehow she still found the courage to complete the distance.
Mike Tomlinson said: “On the 29th June 2006, Jane set off to cycle across the USA at a time when she knew her cancer was aggressive and in its final stage. Her success was testament to her incredible mental strength.
“The Appeal, and we as a family, wanted to mark this milestone in a special way. As Jane was an ambassador for the 2012 London Olympics bid, it seemed appropriate to celebrate her life by cycling to Rio.
“Hopefully, the challenge will help us raise some money, but we also hope that by reminding people about Jane’s journey, it will inspire other people – and show just what can be possible with courage and determination.”
The challenge aims to raise thousands of pounds for the Appeal to carry on Jane’s legacy, supporting children’s and cancer services across the country.
To support the team go to or text JRTR70 £5 to 70070 to donate £5.