Mavis Paterson’s Remarkable 1,000-Mile Cycling Journey Across Scotland
Unbelievable! 85-Year-Old Granny’s Epic 1,000-Mile Cycling Journey Will Leave You Speechless!
Cycling isn’t just a pastime for Mavis Paterson; it’s a lifeline, a source of solace, and a way to honor the memory of her beloved adult children. In a span of just four years, Mavis endured the heart-wrenching loss of her three children: Sandy in 2012, Katie in 2013, and Bob in 2016. It was these profound losses that motivated the 85-year-old grandmother to embark on an extraordinary cycling journey—a 1,000-mile odyssey around the picturesque landscapes of Scotland.
Mavis’s cycling adventure began in May, with the starting point at the Mull of Galloway. She pedaled northward, tracing the beautiful contours of Scotland’s coastline, ultimately returning to the Mull of Galloway. This epic journey was not just a physical challenge; it was her way of coping with unimaginable grief.
“If I didn’t have my bicycle, and this is terrible to say, I don’t think I would want to live,” Mavis confessed, highlighting the profound impact cycling had on her life. Losing her entire family was an unimaginable tragedy, but cycling provided her with a glimmer of hope and a way to move forward.
“It’s been hard for me, but I’ve managed, and people say, ‘Oh, you’re strong,’ and I don’t know where the strength comes from,” Mavis Paterson said. “They ask me. I don’t know. I cope, my bike helps, and I’ve got wonderful friends.”
A Journey Fueled by Determination and Community Support
Mavis Paterson’s daily routine during her month-long cycling journey was nothing short of inspirational. She woke up early each day, braving Scotland’s undulating terrain, exposed roads, and unpredictable weather. Covering up to 50 miles a day, she pedaled with unwavering determination, all while raising funds for the British-based charity, Macmillan Cancer Support.
Along her journey, Mavis found herself surrounded by the kindness of strangers, fellow cyclists who offered her companionship and unwavering support. These cyclists, with all their high-tech gear, rode beside her for days, sharing in the spirit of her mission.
“A lot of them have all the cycling gear, the cleats in the bike and all the lycra,” Paterson said. “I don’t have any of that stuff at all. I’ve got ordinary pedals. I can’t do (cleats)… I’d be falling off the bike all the time… I’m just a happy cyclist.”
Mavis’s incredible journey concluded with a heartwarming scene—a cheering crowd at the finish line, including her 6-foot-3-inch grandson. The sight of him filled her with exhilaration, and she celebrated her achievement with a well-deserved glass of merlot.
Despite her age, Mavis Paterson’s spirit remains indomitable. In the past, she was accustomed to running marathons and half marathons, but as her knees began to give her problems, she turned to cycling. In 2008, she cycled across Canada, an adventure that saw her cycling solo for a portion when her friend encountered health issues. Mavis recalls the solitude of the Canadian landscape, where she often spoke to her bicycle as a companion and a source of humor.
In 2019, she achieved another remarkable feat by cycling the length of Great Britain, becoming the oldest woman to complete the famous route from Lands End to John O’Groats. Throughout each challenge, Mavis raised funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, providing healthcare, advice, and support to those affected by cancer. Her solo cycle around Scotland alone has raised nearly £70,000 ($88,000) for the charity, surpassing her initial goal of £30,000 ($38,000).
Her training regimen for these challenges involved cycling in all types of weather, five or six times a week. Mavis firmly believes that age should never be a barrier to achieving one’s goals, emphasizing the importance of physical and mental health.
“I hope I don’t have to go off my bicycle,” Mavis says with determination when faced with steep hills. “I want to do the work on the hills so that when I get to the top, I say: ‘Hey, I did that.’”
Mavis Paterson: An Inspiration for All
Mavis Paterson’s incredible journey is not just about covering vast distances on two wheels. It’s a testament to the power of determination, the support of a community, and the resilience of the human spirit. Her story serves as an inspiration to those who face challenges and setbacks in life.
“I know people have got on their bikes and thought, ‘If that old lady can do it, I can do it,’” Mavis says with humility. “And also people who have been a bit depressed and thought, ‘Oh gosh, I shouldn’t be like this. Look at poor Mave, she’s lost all her children.’ So a lot of people have taken up cycling because of my cycle rides and just inspired people apparently.”
As Mavis Paterson continues her journey, she remains committed to riding in memory of her children, raising funds, and awareness for a cause close to her heart. She epitomizes the spirit of positivity, resilience, and unwavering determination, proving that age is no obstacle to achieving remarkable feats.
“People keep saying that I’m an inspiration. Well, if I am, that’s great, I’m happy about that,” Mavis concludes with a smile, embracing her role as a beacon of hope and strength for all who hear her story.
By: M Z Hossain, Editor Sky Buzz Feed
