Kamnei Phoon

Some places never quite leave you. Indochina is one of mine. Eighteen months of bittersweet experiences, friendships for life and memories I treasure.

So when I heard in late September about a November charity cycling adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia, raising funds for Khmer kids, I couldn't let it pass. Despite very little time to train.

2 Countries. 7 Days. 1,265km. 5,454m of Climbing. MENTAL.

I love to wander, but this really isn't a vanity ride. I've declined many overseas cycling trips - some more exotic, cheaper and certainly easier. My cycling friends know I loathe climbing. Hills turn me into a tortoise, and the scorching sun fires up the freckles!

But this is A Purposeful Ride - reconnecting with a part of the world I value while doing something worthwhile for the children in Battambang.

Most people train for months for something this gruelling. I've managed to squeeze in just four rides, the longest a mere 80km. Might attempt a Singapore Round the Island the day before I fly out…

Looking at the routes, one word: FEAR. For sure I won't manage the entire distance, but I'll pedal every inch I can before hopping into the rescue van. A sincere gesture from our privileged corner of the world - lending a hand, or in this case, two legs - to children who deserve a brighter future.

The thought of arriving at the HOPE school on 23 November, bringing shoes for the girls' football team, is what keeps me going. My little beacon at the end of a very long road.

Ride with me.

Aw-kun (thank you in Khmer). ❤️

P.S. Poetic irony - I'm returning to the 'crime scene' of my first cycling crash! Long before my two more recent major accidents, I flew over a kerb and had a split-second choice: smash my lips or test my teeth on the tarmac. I bet on the enamel. 😉