In a remarkable display of determination and commitment, 80-year-old ex-Royal Marine Jonathan Thomson has completed his fifth and final cycling challenge in support of PTSD Resolution, a charity dedicated to the mental health of veterans.
The challenge, aptly named ‘Pyrenees 24′, consisted of a gruelling 435-mile (700km) route through the French Pyrenees, with an elevation gain of 35,832 feet. This is equivalent to cycling from London to Edinburgh and 1.23 times the height of Mount Everest. The ride, completed on September 18th, marks the culmination of Jonathan’s fundraising efforts, which have raised over £153,000 to date – enough to fund therapy for more than 180 veterans and their families.
Jonathan, along with a team of committed cyclists, completed the challenge on Wednesday, September 18th. The costs of the trip were covered privately by the team, ensuring that all funds raised would go directly to PTSD Resolution, which has 200 therapists providing nationwide support.
The team consisted of Jonathan, Jez (former Royal Marine), Jim (former Royal Navy pilot), Matt (former Royal Marine), and Bill (former Royal Marine). Together, they have completed five challenging rides for PTSD Resolution since 2020, covering an astounding 4,900 km with 190,325 ft climb – across Scotland, the Orkneys, Shetland, Wales and the Pyrenees. This latest effort saw Jonathan embark on his second Pyrenees adventure, remarkably in his 80th year.
Jonathan explained his motivation for undertaking these challenges, stating, “Too many of our veterans of all ages, and some men and women still serving, suffer the evil effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. This wrecks their lives and deeply affects those of their families and close friends. It is also a major cause of suicide. PTSD Resolution provides well-developed and well-proven treatment for this condition, which is why we continue to cycle on their behalf.”
PTSD Resolution is a registered charity that has provided over 4,000 referrals to date. The organization is dedicated to assisting UK Veterans, Reservists, and family members struggling to reintegrate into everyday life. Founded in 2009, the charity is accredited by the Royal College of Psychiatrists to the Quality Network for Veterans Mental Health Services (QNVMHS). It provides free, prompt, and effective therapy, with treatment available online or by phone.
Charles Highett, CEO of PTSD Resolution, expressed his gratitude for Jonathan’s incredible efforts, stating, “Jonathan’s incredible efforts over the years have made a significant impact on our ability to provide crucial mental health support to veterans and their families. The donations raised will potentially transform not just veterans’ lives, but those of their families and communities as well. His dedication embodies the spirit of service that continues long after leaving the armed forces.”
The ‘Pyrenees 24’ challenge began on September 11th, 2024, as the riders set off in crisp autumnal weather. They cycled through landscapes rich in history and natural beauty, from ancient châteaux to serene forests and vast mountain vistas. Each day presented its own challenges, yet the team’s spirit never wavered.
The seven-day journey consisted of the following:
Day 1: A gentle 51-kilometer warm-up, climbing 2,900 feet through historic villages.Day 2: 96 kilometers covered with 5,587 feet of climbing, battling rain and low clouds through the forests of Ariège.Day 3: Another 96-kilometer ride with 5,869 feet of climbing, encountering local wildlife and early autumn chills.Day 4: The most challenging day, covering 115 kilometers and ascending 8,697 feet over high mountain passes.Day 5: A 102-kilometer descent through Mediterranean oak forests, climbing 4,281 feet.Day 6: A gruelling 124-kilometer ride battling strong headwinds across high plateaus, climbing 3,754 feet.Day 7: The final 99.7-kilometer stretch, climbing 4,737 feet and following old railway lines.
As the journey concluded on September 18th, Jonathan expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported his efforts over the years. “This has been our last expedition, ever,” he announced, reflecting on the extraordinary experiences and the generous support received.
Jonathan is also a deserving Finalist of the 2024 Soldiering On Awards, up for the ‘Inspiration Award’ – “to honour a person that has overcome significant challenges, injury or disability, and whose ongoing or past outstanding achievements are an inspiration to others.”
While ‘Pyrenees 24’ marks the end of Jonathan’s cycling expeditions, the impact of his remarkable efforts will continue to resonate in the lives of the individuals he has helped transform.
The Pyrenees 24 donation page remains open for
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.