A man living with Parkinson’s is taking on a cycling challenge to raise awareness for charity.
Gary Shaughnessy CBE is raising funds and awareness for Parkinson’s UK as part of his 60 for 60 challenge.
The 60-year-old, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2015, is cycling from Andermatt in the Swiss Alps to the Isle of Man’s famous TT starting grid.
The journey began on September 1 and is expected to take just over three weeks to complete.
Gary said: "This definitely qualifies as one of the hardest challenges I’ve done. The first day really took it out of my legs and much of the challenge has been against a headwind.
"That said, the countryside has been beautiful, we’ve met some really supportive people along the way and the team has been great fun to be with.
"I appreciate not everyone will take on exercise this extreme, but this reinforces that people with Parkinson’s and other conditions can still get out, be active and enjoy themselves."
Mr Shaughnessy and his team will cover more than 1,500 kilometres through Switzerland, Liechtenstein, northern France, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK and the Isle of Man.
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As part of the challenge, Mr Shaughnessy will also compete in the Great North Run on September 13 before completing the final cycling stage to finish at the Isle of Man TT circuit.
He has already taken part in walking football, cricket, running and other activities as part of his 60 for 60 efforts.
Parkinson’s UK encourages people with the condition to stay active, highlighting benefits such as better balance, strength and coordination.
To support Mr Shaughnessy or donate to Parkinson’s UK, visit https://www.garyschallenges.com/
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