Author: Anton and Julie

The first thing that I noticed about the Fjern Aktiv hoodless down jacket was the weight. It seemed ridiculous that a down jacket could weigh so little (295g for a size small). The next was the amazing colour, although I am biased as I love the colour blue. Nonetheless I was not prepared for just how bright and alive the jacket looked it screamed adventure and fun. Moreover, my husband Anton looked pretty handsome in his raspberry and red Aktiv jacket. I had originally got the jacket to wear hiking the Cotswold Way, but I could not wait to wear it, so I wore it outside the very first opportunity I got which was walking the dogs first thing in the morning. The morning was frosty which was a perfect opportunity to test the warmth of the jacket, as a good looking jacket is one thing, but no one looks good

GREAT NEWS! We have been lucky enough to be introduced to Rhian who has agreed to join us on our Adventure Racing Journey Rhian is at her happiest outdoors and loves challenging herself, what an amazing fit for our team. Very excited to introduce you to Rhian but why listen to me when Rhian can introduce herself: I’m Rhian, 38 years old, mad on all things adventure and the outdoors. Sports science grad, my taste for sports has moved from the more conventional hockey and tennis, to strength and endurance training including CrossFit and ultra-distance events/challenges. My ethos is to always look for ways to improve, learn and grow in all aspects of life. I believe you should fight for what you believe in and I would rather fail than not put myself forward for a challenge. I don’t always come first, but I give 110% every time and I learn, get stronger

After an enjoyable morning walk with the dogs and wondering what we could do during the Easter break the Cotswold Challenge was born. Now perhaps it was the coffee or the excitement of setting the challenge, as I am still not sure how we decided on doing 102 miles in 30hrs. Nonetheless, we did wonder why when we asked people to join us, they politely declined! Now in hindsight I can see why completing the Cotswold Way which includes 4,573 m of elevation in 30hrs was a tad optimistic as a hiking challenge. Needless to say, we had to march at the set off to reach any of our targets which was probably quite comical and confusing to watch as people were leisurely taking in the views whilst we stomped past wishing them a good morning wearing our slam69 cycling tops. We met some amazing supportive people on our jaunt who

Welcome to Silk Road Mountain Race 2021 ! We are pleased to inform you that your application to take part in the third edition of the race has been accepted.  SRMR has again attracted a diverse group of riders with some serious cycling and mountain experience. It was truly a pleasure to read about your previous adventures! It's going to be quite the race. Talk about experiencing mixed emotions when we read this email!  So for those that don’t know about the race… here goes.  To race in the Silk Road Mountain Race you have to apply… which includes a lengthy application including previous experiences, races, and the ability to race unsupported in the middle of remote wilderness (and all things survival!). Further to the team at SRMR vetting the applications, you get accepted (or not) and invited to race.  It is a relatively new race, only starting in 2018 with riders from all over the

For various events, we partner with charities to raise awareness and vital funds for some incredible causes. On the hardest runs, the longest swims, or the toughest rides – it is this that drives us. For that reason we have chosen the Chamwell Centre as our charity for the Silk Road Mountain Race. Moreover I am super excited to be working at the Chamwell Centre and to be involved in RaceRunning (Frame Running).  I have been totally inspired by the resilience and dedication of the Race Running Dragons who meet on Sunday mornings come rain or shine.  The Chamwell Centre is a charity that empowers people with disabilities to be the best versions of themselves by providing an environment where individuals can develop their skills and enjoy an inclusive sporting atmosphere with likeminded people.  The Chamwell Centre aims to promote wellbeing through physical activity and belonging. 

Well, this is where it all started! I met Graham Foot 20 (ish) years ago when he started the ‘Bigfoot’ mountain bike club and persuaded me to start racing.  My first race was less than prepared for; basically I decide that I would race after having one too many ciders at a hockey club bash.  I cycled home that evening (early morning) and then headed out to the race the next day.  I arrived with minutes to go before the race started.  I quickly paid my entrance fee, ran to the car, got my bike and cycled to the start line as the race was heading off in the distance.  Happy days. I managed to catch the pack and win the race.   I have never looked back and with the help of Graham Foot; who became my manager for the Karrimor team I managed to arrive on time for races and learn the ropes of competitive

In the Heart of the Cotswolds Smokestone Bikes came about from one man's passion to make bikes he needed and couldn't find. Its seems others like what's been created. Designs are created to fulfill a purpose, not to just follow a trend.  Team riders and customers feedback also feeds into the design process. We are proud to be partnering Smokestone Bikes and Graham Foot creating a bike fit for purpose for the Silk Road Mountain Race. The frames are currently being built and the final specifications being compiled. Follows and Smokestone bikes as they are built, tested and then put to their hardest test – 1800km of the toughest Kyrgyzstan landscape. #ExpandYourRide