Local cyclist raising funds for Cure Leukaemia by cycling The Tour de Femme

Michelle Sharland, a 54-year-old well known and respected cycling coach from West Horsley, is set to take on one of the toughest endurance female challenges in the cycling world as she rides all nine stages of The Route Tour de FranceFemmes avec Zwift—just one day ahead of the professional women’s peloton.

Over nine consecutive days, Michelle and the team of 23 female amateur cyclists will cycle a staggering 1,175 kilometres and climb an immense 18,795 metres, tackling some of cycling’s most iconic and demanding ascents, including Mont Ventoux and Col d’Èze. The challenge mirrors the official women’s Tour de France Femmes route, pushing riders to their physical and mental limits.

To put the scale of the challenge into perspective, completing 1,175 kilometres is the equivalent of ascending and descending the iconic Box Hill in Surrey approximately 151 times—a daunting feat even for the most experienced cyclists. The total elevation gain is equally punishing, comparable to climbing Mount Everest more than twice, demanding relentless endurance, strength, and resilience.

Michelle is part of a team of amateur female cyclists riding in support of Cure Leukaemia, the official UK charity partner of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. The charity funds the groundbreaking ATICUS Network, which is transforming access to clinical trials for children battling blood cancer—offering new hope to families across the UK.

By taking on this extraordinary challenge, Michelle has already raised a staggering £15k and aims to keep raising both awareness and vital funds to support pioneering treatments and improve outcomes for patients facing leukaemia and other blood cancers.

Speaking about the challenge, Michelle said: “This is more than just a cycling event—it’s an opportunity to push myself beyond my limits while supporting an incredible cause. Knowing that every mile ridden can help bring hope to children and families affected by blood cancer is what keeps me going.”
Supporters are encouraged to follow Michelle’s journey and contribute to her fundraising efforts, helping Cure Leukaemia continue its life-saving work through the ATICUS Network.

Donation Link: justgiving.com/page/michelle-sharland-5