After her three children died, 85-year-old Mavis Paterson cycled 1,000 miles around Scotland
Granny Mave, also known as Mavis Paterson, has made cycling a crucial part of her identity. This activity has gone beyond being a mere habit for her and has become an integral part of her life. She turned to cycling after experiencing the tragic loss of all three of her grown-up children in a span of four years- Sandy in 2012, Katie in 2013 and Bob in 2016. Cycling gives her a sense of purpose and a reason to keep on living.
The 85-year-old grandma embarked on a new grueling adventure in May by cycling a total of 1,000 miles around Scotland, starting from the Mull of Galloway, and following the country's coastline until she reached the same location again. Her motivation for this challenge was to honor the memory of her dear children.
She expressed to CNN Sport that if she didn't have her bicycle, it would be awful to admit, but she doesn't believe she would have the desire to live.
It's hard to believe that I've lost my entire family. I remember my daughter mentioning that it must be unimaginable to lose a child, especially after one of her friends had passed away. I agreed with her, stating that I couldn't even fathom the idea as it's something I have sadly experienced, having lost all of my children.
Biking has given her comfort, serving as a means of dealing with an indescribable sorrow.
"I have faced challenges, but I've been able to overcome them and others have remarked on my strength. I'm not sure what gives me the strength to push through, but I find solace in riding my bike and the support of my fantastic friends."
For a whole month, Paterson rode her bicycle around the entire perimeter of Scotland, dealing with its rolling hills and open paths, as well as the erratic weather. She commenced her journey at an early hour each day, pedaling up to 50 miles in distance. Paterson's primary aim, however, was to raise funds for the organization Macmillan Cancer Support.
Paterson remembered that as she rode, numerous other cyclists came out to accompany her and provided excellent encouragement. Some of these individuals even rode with her for multiple days in a row.
She mentioned that many of them wear the complete cycling attire, including cleats and lycra clothing. However, she does not possess any of those things and opts for ordinary pedals instead. Cleats are not her cup of tea as she feels that she would constantly fall off the bike. Nevertheless, she identifies herself as a content cyclist.
Paterson received unwavering assistance as she journeyed through Scotland, leading up to a group of people at the end point who had gathered to show their support and offer encouragement.
Amidst all the people, there was my grandson standing tall at 6'3". The moment I spotted him, I dashed over to embrace him and it gave me an incredible rush of excitement. Following my accomplishment, I treated myself with a refreshing sip of merlot.
During her journey, she also turned 85 years old and had a celebration in Moffat, Scotland. While hiking the hills on her ride, she commemorated this special occasion with a party.
Patterson remembers thinking, "I really don't want to get off my bike," as she rode up the steepest hill on her journey.
"I was able to reach the summit despite the challenge. Some individuals suggested I invest in an electric bike to ease the struggle but I refused. I prefer to physically overcome the obstacles on hills because it gives me a sense of accomplishment knowing that I made it to the top through my own efforts."
Paterson used to participate in marathons and half marathons, but switched to cycling due to knee issues she was facing.
In an effort to challenge herself, she embarked on a journey in 2008 to cycle across Canada in the company of a friend. However, when her companion faced health complications, she continued on her own for a portion of the ride.
As Paterson rode his bicycle through the province of Saskatchewan, he recollects covering vast stretches of land with nothing but endless roads and fields as far as the eye could see. Despite the solitude, he never experienced a sense of loneliness. Instead, he chatted with his trusty two-wheeler, turning the experience into a source of amusement.
In 2019, she rode her bike the entire length of Great Britain, starting at its southernmost point, Lands End, and finishing at its northernmost point, John O'Groats. This achievement made her the oldest woman to ever complete the renowned route.
Paterson has been collecting funds for Macmillan Cancer Support by facing various challenges. This organization offers healthcare, guidance, and aid to people impacted by cancer. Recently, Paterson has cycled alone around Scotland to collect donations for the charity. Her efforts have raised almost £70,000 ($88,000) thus far, which is more than twice the amount of her initial goal of £30,000 ($38,000).
"I am truly astonished by the incredible kindness of others, and it brings me immense joy to be able to offer monetary assistance to those in need," she expressed.
To be prepared for this task, Paterson had to ride his bike outside in every kind of weather condition, approximately five to six times per week.
According to the speaker, failing to train at her age can hinder a person from being able to perform certain tasks. However, she notes that the training she underwent was challenging but made her feel young and capable.
Paterson plans to undertake additional endurance challenges and fundraising efforts in the future, while still cycling in honor of her children.
According to her, many individuals have been motivated to bike after seeing her cycle rides. Some have felt encouraged by seeing an elderly lady cycling and thought they could do it themselves. Others who were feeling gloomy saw her efforts and felt encouraged to take up cycling as a positive change in their life. She believes that her cycle rides have inspired many to take up cycling.
Folks often comment that I serve as a source of inspiration. If that's the case, it's wonderful, and I am content acknowledging it.
