Taking on an endurance challenge is nothing new – but cycling more than 1,300 kilometers from Lund to Paris is something special. For one Team Rynkeby participant, the journey is not only about pushing physical limits, but also about contributing to a cause that truly matters.
With a background in endurance sports, including running races and cross-country skiing, the idea of joining Team Rynkeby immediately stood out. While cycling was already a familiar activity, long-distance rides of this scale were uncharted territory. The combination of a personal challenge and a meaningful purpose made the opportunity impossible to resist to Bertin Exensor’s Technical Director Erik Hedén.
Preparation for such an undertaking has been both disciplined and demanding. Since October, the team has trained three times a week, steadily building endurance and strength. As the departure date approaches, long Saturday rides – sometimes reaching 200 kilometers – have become a key part of the routine, helping both body and mind adapt to many hours in the saddle.
Mental preparation plays an equally important role. Experience from past endurance events has shown that long days bring natural fluctuations in both energy and mood. Rather than focusing on the total distance ahead, the strategy is to stay present and take it one pedal stroke at a time. Small mental shifts like these can make a crucial difference when the going gets tough.
Erik Hedén, Technical Director at Bertin Exensor
Yet, the journey is not just about the physical challenge. What truly stands out is the shared experience. Riding alongside a dedicated and supportive team offers moments of joy, resilience, and connection – whether celebrating small milestones, overcoming difficult stretches, or simply enjoying the scenery together. Cycling through Northern Europe at a slower pace also provides a unique way to experience the landscape, far removed from the rush of highway travel.
At the heart of it all lies a deeper motivation. Team Rynkeby supports children with critical illnesses, and for many participants, this mission is deeply personal. Having seen the impact of cancer up close – among family and friends – the realities of the disease go far beyond its life-threatening nature. It affects every aspect of a person’s life, making even small contributions toward support and research feel profoundly meaningful.
Cycling to Paris, then, becomes more than a test of endurance. It is a journey of purpose, teamwork, and resilience – where every kilometer ridden carries not just the rider forward, but also the hope of making a difference.
