Chase the Sun

David Bainbridge didn’t ride to inspire. He rode because it was the only way to survive.

Just 21 days after being bedridden and medically wrecked, he tore through RideLondon—on nothing but grit, history, and a will that refused to quit.

There was no training. No strength. No reason to believe he could finish. But he didn’t pace himself. He didn’t hold back. He rode full-throttle—heart rate maxed, pain screaming, purpose locked in.

This isn’t a story about motivation. It’s about what happens when every part of you wants to stop—but you don’t. David’s strength isn't some inspirational quote on a pretty background; it's the cold, hard fact that he's still f'king here.

Chasing the Sun: UK’s Ultimate Cycling Challenge

Each summer solstice, while most of us ease into the longest day of the year, a special group of cyclists sets off on an unforgettable odyssey — to ride from sunrise to sunset, coast to coast, across Southern England. This is Chase the Sun UK South, an epic 205-mile cycling challenge that tests not just physical stamina but the spirit within.

The Essence of the Challenge:
Born in 2008 from the dream of three “average cyclists,” this event has become a rite of passage for endurance riders. But it’s not a race. It’s a personal mission, an adventure across diverse landscapes with one goal: to finish before the sun dips below the horizon.

A Route Like No Other:
Starting at Minster on Sea, in Kent, the route sweeps through London, rural Hampshire, the Vale of Pewsey, and climaxes with a breathtaking descent through Cheddar Gorge. Riders navigate their own way with GPS, making self-sufficiency as critical as pedal power.

More Than Miles:
Whether you're solo or in a relay, you’ll face 3000m of climbing, changing weather, and mental roadblocks. Yet, the camaraderie on the road, the generosity of locals, and the sense of achievement are unmatched. It’s a journey that changes you.

Voices from the Road:
Riders from past editions describe it as “tough but magical,” citing early morning starts, relentless headwinds, and moments of solitude broken by roadside encouragement and shared determination.

Plan. Train. Chase.
Training for Chase the Sun isn't optional — it's essential. From back-to-back century rides to mastering nutrition and navigation, preparation is the invisible gear that gets you to the finish.

Why You Should Ride:
This isn’t just a cycling event. It’s a full-body experience of the UK’s natural beauty, your personal limits, and the ticking clock of nature. It’s a bold invitation to greet the sun, race it, and reach the sea before it sleeps.

Conclusion:
Whether you're considering signing up or cheering from the sidelines, Chase the Sun UK South offers something timeless: the thrill of chasing daylight with nothing but your will and two wheels.

A Cyclist’s Guide to Surviving and Thriving on the B3135.

The Cheddar Gorge descent isn’t just another segment on the Chase the Sun UK South route—it's the crux of beauty and risk, self-reliance and smart strategy. Spanning 3 miles of winding limestone grandeur, this stretch tests even the most experienced riders, especially as daylight dwindles.

Daylight Descent:
With its natural illumination and scenic drama, riding the gorge by day rewards the cyclist with panoramic views and clear navigation. But don't let the sunlight fool you—rockfall, tourist traffic, and sharp bends still require razor-sharp attention.

Nighttime Descent:
Enter an entirely different world. The B3135 becomes a tunnel of uncertainty. No streetlights. Increased wildlife. The documented threat of anti-social driving. Your lights are your lifeline. And your judgment? Non-negotiable.

The Risks Are Real:
From lack of enforcement to road surface variability, and the psychological strain of isolation at night, this ride demands preparation that goes beyond endurance. Every rider is responsible for their own safety—with no marshals, signage, or mechanical support.

Pro Tips from the Report:

• Never attempt a night descent without high-lumen lighting and redundancy
• Know your route—download and familiarise yourself with the GPX file
• Use reflective gear and consider a helmet-mounted light for maximum visibility
• Stop before the descent if you're unsure—personal safety trumps the sunset finish