Pedal for Palestine

A 19-hour fast, sweltering conditions, and even a pair of broken handlebars could not stop a Bradford cyclist from completing his fundraising mission

Abid Khan, from Clayton Heights, pedalled his way from Bradford to Leeds, and back again, in hope of raising funds for those most in need in Palestine.

Within just one week of setting himself the challenge, the 27-year-old had already raised over £1,000 before he took to the roads on Sunday 20^th July.

With the support of his wife, who followed closely behind in a convoy, Abid was able to complete the task despite only riding a bike on the road for the first time earlier in the week.

“It was really tough and a big challenge especially without any water,” he said.

“Thankfully I had some great support from my wife, friends and family who, as well as sponsoring me, sent me texts and messages of encouragement throughout the ride.

“I was really proud to finish it because I knew this money would be going to a good cause.”

Setting off from Bradford city centre at 11.30am, Abid cycled his way to Leeds in around 90minutes before he had to undertake the unenviable task of cycling back.

After a rest period to catch his breath, and also hammer the handlebars back onto his bike, he jumped back on the saddle and began the uphill climb.

Arriving in the city just over one and a half hours later, Abid says he was greeted by the ‘common sight’ of fellow fundraisers also undertaking selfless acts to raise money for Palestine.

The Bradford resident added that it made him very emotional to think of all the people who had been affected by the conflicts abroad.

“At the time of breaking fast I was close to tears,” he said. “I knew that I had struggled throughout the day and was now able to have access to food and drink, but people in Palestine didn’t even have these little luxuries."

“That thought kept going through my mind and it really put the whole fundraising challenge into perspective.”

He added: “I hope people will read my story and do similar initiatives because we can all do our part to help any charity.”

Abid will meet representatives from the Interpal charity this weekend to hand over the donations which so far total almost £2,000.