Justin Pryce

Published: 12 July, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT

THE countless trophies and winners’ medals that top amateur footballer Justin Pryce has collected over the years is testament enough that he has the staying power to race up and down the pitch for 90 minutes.

Especially as the midfielder usually plays at least twice a week to fulfil his obligations to Phoenix in the Camden Sunday League and Islington Admiral in the Midweek League.

But the 32-year-old is about to put his stamina to the ultimate test – as he prepares to cycle more than 325 miles to raise money for Action Medical Research, a charity dedicated to saving and changing children’s lives.

Describing it as the biggest challenge of his life, Justin, who works as a duty manager at Highbury Pool Fitness Centre, will jump on his bike next Thursday and start a journey from London to Paris.

And the father of one couldn’t ask for more in the way of motivation to help get him across the finishing line as it was his 10-year-old daughter Leah who made him want to take up the challenge.

He said: “Having been blessed with a daughter who is fit and healthy, I wanted to use my passion for cycling to help those who have not been as fortunate. Leah is my pride and joy, and when I saw the Action Medical Research website I just knew I had to do something to raise money for them. My goal is £2,000 and I’ve already raised more than half of that so fingers crossed I’ll hit my target.

“I’m very nervous but, at the same time, very excited. Once I’ve crossed the finishing line I know I will have helped contribute to a fantastic cause.”

What makes Justin’s latest venture all the more astounding is the fact that up until two years ago he barely use to cycle anywhere, and when he did he would barely cover a five-mile round trip to his mum’s, the shops and then back home again to his flat in Archway.

Then he embarked on his first charity bike ride, a mere 56 mile trek from London to Brighton.

As if the pressure of completing a route that is almost six times greater than his previous efforts wasn’t enough, Justin has prepared for his big challenge alongside preparing for his big day.

Last month, he married partner Becky, 26, and admitted that even on their honeymoon in the Dominican Republic he had to find time to do spinning classes and hit the gym.

“Leading up to my wedding was very hectic,” he said. “So to fit in training, work and chasing people for sponsorship so I can hit my target was a real challenge. Even with all the planning and prepara­tions for our big day Becky found the time to help me raise funds, she’s been wonderful and very supportive.

“I think only mad people decide to cycle 325 miles, so I must be crazy!”

• To help Justin reach his target visit www.action.org.uk/sponsor/ justinpryce and make a pledge