900 km for Camposol: a father and son’s charity cycle

What started as an ambitious father-and-son cycling challenge became an extraordinary adventure, testing physical endurance, mental strength and determination, all in the name of charity.

Paul Johnson and his son Ashley set themselves the incredible challenge of cycling around 900 kilometres, unaided, from Laruns in the French Pyrenees all the way to Camposol, in Murcia, to raise much-needed funds for three local charities: FAST Camposol, MABS and Forget Me Not. Paul owns a property on Camposol but lives in Jersey, and wanted to give something back to organisations that make such a difference to local residents. Ashley works as a paramedic, so helping others is second nature to him.

Seven days of adventure and adversity

This was never going to be an ordinary charity bike ride. Over the course of the journey, the pair faced almost every challenge imaginable: freezing temperatures as low as 4°C, torrential rain, relentless headwinds, exhausting mountain climbs and difficult terrain. They spent one night sleeping in a bus shelter, treated themselves to a hotel only to find barely any hot water, and battled a gruelling 40-kilometre stretch through the Badlands, where thick clay brought them to a standstill for almost an hour. There were early starts in complete darkness, long hours in the saddle, and even the mosquitoes seemed determined to join in.

Through it all, Paul shared honest and often very funny daily updates, his sense of humour shining through even when his body was telling him enough was enough.

A father and son bond like no other

Behind the laughter and the spectacular scenery was a more personal story. As the days went on, Paul began suffering considerable pain in his Achilles tendons, and at times simply continuing became an enormous challenge. It was in those moments that the strength of the bond between father and son really showed. Paul openly admitted that without Ashley’s patience, encouragement and unwavering support, he doubted he could have carried on through the toughest stages. Their journey became about far more than covering kilometres; it was about teamwork, trust, resilience and an experience neither will ever forget.

From the journey

A few images from the road, from the quiet early miles to the big welcome home.

Tap a photo to view it full size.

Making every kilometre count

The real purpose throughout was to support three charities that provide valuable services in the Camposol community. FAST Camposol provides a volunteer emergency first aid response for local residents, MABS supports people affected by cancer and their families, and Forget Me Not provides respite and dementia support in the community.

Together, Paul and Ashley raised a wonderful total of €3,495, which they have presented to the three charities, €1,165 to each. For these organisations, that generosity means far more than a financial donation. It is a lovely example of people recognising the importance of local voluntary groups and going to extraordinary lengths to support them.

A warm Camposol welcome

As the pair approached their final destination, anticipation grew among the Camposol residents who had been following their adventures, and they were given a warm welcome at Bridie Murphy’s on Sector B.

What began as a 900-kilometre cycling challenge became something far greater: days of hardship, laughter and unforgettable experiences, shared between a father and his son. On behalf of Camposol, a heartfelt thank you to Paul and Ashley. Your kindness, courage and determination are truly appreciated, and you should both be incredibly proud of what you have achieved.