85-year-old cyclist honors late children with epic 1,000-mile ride

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LONDON, Oct 7, (Agencies): Cycling has transformed from a mere habit into an indispensable part of Mavis Paterson’s life, affectionately known as “Granny Mave.” Her bicycle has become her lifeline, providing her with a reason to keep going after the heart-wrenching loss of all three of her adult children in a span of just four years: Sandy in 2012, Katie in 2013, and Bob in 2016.

In May, at the age of 85, this determined grandmother embarked on a poignant journey across Scotland, cycling a remarkable 1,000 miles. Her route began at the Mull of Galloway and circled the country’s outline, ending back at the Mull of Galloway.

Mave candidly shared with CNN Sport, “If I didn’t have my bicycle, and this is terrible to say, I don’t think I would want to live. To lose your entire family, it’s just unbelievable.”

Cycling has been her refuge, offering solace and a way to cope with unimaginable grief. She reflected, “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. They ask me. I don’t know. I cope, my bike helps, and I’ve got wonderful friends.”

For an entire month, Paterson tackled the challenging terrain of Scotland, facing undulating landscapes, exposed roads, and unpredictable weather. Each day, she woke up early and set out to ride, covering up to 50 miles daily while raising funds for the British-based charity Macmillan Cancer Support.

Along her journey, fellow cyclists joined her, providing tremendous support. Mave recalled their camaraderie, saying, “A lot of them have all the cycling gear, the cleats in the bike and all the lycra. I don’t have any of that stuff at all. I’ve got ordinary pedals… I’m just a happy cyclist.”

This camaraderie persisted throughout her Scottish odyssey, culminating in a jubilant crowd at the finish line, where her 6-foot-3-inch grandson stood, offering an exhilarating reunion.

Mave also celebrated her 85th birthday during her ride, marked by a party in the town of Moffat. She encountered steep hills along her journey, and she recalled thinking, “I hope I don’t have to get off my bicycle.” But her determination prevailed, and she conquered those hills with sheer grit.

Previously an avid runner of marathons and half marathons, Mave transitioned to cycling when knee problems arose. Her journey of setting challenges for herself began in 2008 when she cycled across Canada, even riding solo for part of the journey when her friend faced health issues.

In 2019, she accomplished the remarkable feat of cycling the entire length of Great Britain, becoming the oldest woman ever to complete this iconic route. At each turn, Paterson raised funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity that provides essential healthcare and support for cancer patients and their families. Her solo cycle around Scotland has raised nearly £70,000 ($88,000) for the charity, surpassing her initial target of £30,000 ($38,000).

Training for such arduous endeavors required her to cycle in all types of weather five or six times a week. Mave emphasizes, “When you’re my age, if you don’t train and you think you can go do something, well you can’t. It’s tough training. The training I managed, I didn’t feel old at all.”

Mave’s determination remains unshaken, and she plans to embark on more endurance challenges and fundraising efforts in the future, all in memory of her beloved children. She hopes her inspiring journey encourages others to take up cycling and find hope and strength in the face of adversity.

“People keep saying that I’m an inspiration,” she modestly acknowledges. “Well, if I am, that’s great. I’m happy about that.”

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