Following many months of meticulous planning by the Volunteer Support Crew and a long ride from Todmorden to Morecambe we excitedly boarded the ferry to the Isle of Man. ‘We’ being 13 EMpowered riders, 5 support crew and 13 support riders.
We were welcomed at our Joey Dunlop foundation accommodation, by the fortunately lovely weather and by the friendly people. I never heard a disgruntled car horn nor saw anything other than smiles from other road users (they’d possibly never seen the like).
We had a uniquely special welcome from Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorrimer and Lady Lorrimer. It was a privilege to visit Government House and we were proud to host them and other amazing guests at our BBQ evening.
We rode long and hard. 270 miles and ascent of 17,530 feet – equivalent to Everest Base Camp. (Phew). The lead-out and sweeper riders rode fast.
We others rode slowly enough(!) to marvel at the scenery, admire the profusion of Spring flowers in the verges, spot curlews, lapwings and golden plovers and have an all round great time. We stopped frequently to refuel on great food and chat, laugh and rest awhile.
Manx – you were Magic.
Empowered People 
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