The GT24 challenge is a gruelling 24 hour non-stop mountain bike ride covering over 150 miles of climbs, descents and rough terrain.

It’s certainly not quick little pootle for the weekend. Only 3 riders have ever completed this is under 24hrs – and all of them were men.

Champion endurance mountain biker, Naomi Freireich has set herself the GT24 challenge as a means to raise £2,500 in funds and awareness for pancreatic cancer, after her brother-in-law was diagnosed with the terminal illness.

“I feel powerless to help my sister and brother-in-law and thought that the next best thing would be to try and help raise awareness and funds for research.” – Naomi

This challenge is anything but easy as the route will take Naomi 96 miles from Glasgow to Fort William, and from there to Inverness along the Great Glen Way, a further 73 miles. With a total of 169 miles and a 16,500 ft ascent, Naomi will not only be doing this ride without stopping, but also alone.

Speaking about her motivations, she said: “I feel powerless to help my sister and brother-in-law and thought that the next best thing would be to try and help raise awareness and funds for research.”

The current record of the GT24 is 20 hours, 40 minutes. Naomi is determined to set a new record as being the only female to complete the GT24, but in record time.

Ali Stunt, Founder of Pancreatic Cancer Action, said: “We are very grateful to Naomi for giving her time to support Pancreatic Cancer Action. As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals to help us continue our vital work. These funds enable us to continue research into early diagnosis and raise awareness of pancreatic cancer.”

We wish Naomi the very best of luck for the GT24 challenge. If you would like to donate and support Naomi, head over to her fund-raising page here.