Cyclists complete Glasgow to Athens challenge and raise close to £100,000

Thighs of Steel Cyclists Complete 5,000 km Relay from Glasgow to Athens for Migrant Charity

A remarkable community of cyclists, Thighs of Steel, has successfully completed a challenging nine-week relay ride from Glasgow to Athens, raising funds for migrant charity MASS Action. The journey, which began on July 16 and concluded on September 17, saw approximately 100 different cyclists participate at various stages. The group has raised around £93,000 towards their £100,000 target, cycling through countries such as France, Italy, Croatia, and Albania, all in support of migrant initiatives.

Overcoming Challenges and Rising to the Occasion

One of the most challenging moments of the trip occurred in Albania, where several members of the group fell ill after swimming in Lake Shkodra. Georgie Cottle, 28, a volunteer coordinator for Scottish Detainee Visitors, recalled the tough experience. “A bunch of us got a vomiting bug from swimming in Lake Shkodra. What was incredible, though, was how those who weren’t ill stepped up to look after everyone else, cooking us plain pasta with salt and olive oil.”

Despite the setback, the group managed to push forward. "Somehow we managed to get back on the bikes the next day and climbed Mount Dajti, the mountain peak overlooking Tirana," Cottle said. "It was one of the greatest descents of the trip, down into a canyon, through two road tunnels at 60 kph, and across a suspension bridge with birds of prey flying alongside."

The group's ability to persevere, even in difficult moments, was attributed to their unwavering support for one another, a sentiment echoed by fellow cyclist Tammy Friend, 38, a speech and language therapy student. She described the camaraderie of Thighs of Steel: "One person’s puncture is everyone’s puncture. The ‘all in it together’ vibe of Thighs of Steel is a unique and special thing."

Reaching the Final Destination

As the cyclists approached their final destination, they faced a daunting climb up Athens' famous Mount Lycabettus. “We felt simultaneously excited and daunted,” said Cottle. But after the hard climb, the group celebrated together by rolling down the hill for falafel and beers at a local bike shop, Vicious Cycles Athens.

The experience was more than just a physical challenge; it was about the sense of community that had developed among the cyclists. "We cycle together, but we also cook and eat together, go shopping together, fill up each other’s water bottles, and pitch tents together,” Cottle explained. "We all help one another out in so many ways that I really don’t think I can look after myself alone anymore."

Gratitude for Support Along the Way

The success of the trip wouldn’t have been possible without the help of the generous supporters along the way. “We couldn't have done this without the support of the 2,700 donors who gave some of their hard-earned cash to the cause, or the hundreds of kind, generous, and hospitable people we met along the way,” Cottle said. From helping to fill water bottles to translating road signs or offering places to sleep, the group was overwhelmed by the kindness they encountered.

In one heartwarming moment, the cyclists even had the opportunity to pet a baby rescue piglet. "People filled our water bottles, translated Albanian road signs for us, pointed us to the best snacks, or invited us into their gardens for the night," Cottle recalled.

Funding Migrant Projects

The money raised will go directly to projects and organizations supported by MASS Action, including Khora – an international collective based in Athens. Khora provides hot meals, asylum support, creative workshops, and clothing to migrants in the area. Jessie Sullivan, 28, a PhD student at UCL and a volunteer at MASS Action, highlighted the impact of Khora, noting that it was funded in large part by Thighs of Steel cyclists. "They serve thousands of meals a week, and during COVID, they continued delivering meals by bicycle. That’s how many in the community stayed fed during the pandemic."

The funds will also support the Mazi Housing Project, which provides accommodation for single men who may face barriers to housing due to stereotypes about migrants from non-western countries. Sullivan emphasized the importance of this project in helping vulnerable individuals find stability, saying, “It’s really great to see those men get the support they need and, once those basic needs are met, begin to thrive in other ways – maybe get a job, join other organizations, and perhaps become leaders in their community.”

Final Thoughts

The Thighs of Steel team’s 5,000 km journey was not just about cycling; it was about community, perseverance, and making a meaningful impact for a cause that is close to their hearts. The cyclists’ collective effort has raised significant funds for MASS Action, directly supporting migrants and refugees who rely on these vital services. The journey will be remembered not only for the physical feats achieved but also for the generosity and solidarity displayed throughout.

As the group reflects on their journey, Cottle sums up the spirit of the trip: "We all helped each other in so many ways, and the support we received from the communities we passed through made it all possible. This was a true team effort, and the impact will be felt for years to come."