Pensioner Roger’s 365 climbs
A Calderdale pensioner has completed a remarkable 365 ascents of the notorious Cragg Vale climb in just one year. Roger Haley, 75, overcame bronchitis to bike up the dale up to four times a day to raise cash for charity.
The Luddendenfoot distance cyclist even described his daily battle against the elements as ‘just like a round of golf’.
Roger, who is chairman of John Winter Ltd, was inspired to tackle the UK’s longest continuous gradient after watching pro riders during the Tour de France.
He planned to complete 270 ascents by July - but eventually covered a total distance of 3,764 miles during the 365 climbs.
“I averaged one a day, but sometimes it was three or four. In the first six months the weather was pretty good so I was well ahead - but I went to South Africa for a month in January and then had bronchitis, so I lost three months,” said Roger.
The most challenging day was earlier this spring, when Roger faced force-eight gales - but his favourite breakfast helped him overcome tough conditions.
“I have baked beans in the cafe at Mytholmroyd every morning! The ride is just like a round of golf - all days are different, they are never the same.”
Roger has raised over £3,000 for Hope Community Villages, a Halifax-based charity which provides homes for children in India.
“Starting off and the first mile are the hardest parts; I’m OK after that. The road surface isn’t great and there are ice cream vans all over the place! It takes me about an hour to climb - the wind makes so much difference.”
And relaxation couldn’t be further from Roger’s mind.
“I’m going to the Pyrenees in July for some distance cycling! But I’m also having a day at the Test match at Lord’s.”