Mission accomplished: Grahame completes coast-to-coast challenge for The Greenaway Foundation

When most people approach retirement, leisurely holidays or relaxing hobbies come to mind – not cycling 3,800 miles across America. But East Grinstead businessman Grahame Russell and his friend Tim aren’t most people.

Two months ago, we introduced Grahame’s bold plan to cycle from Santa Monica, California, to Boston, Massachusetts, raising funds for The Greenaway Foundation – a local charity supporting financially vulnerable families across Sussex and Surrey. After nine gruelling yet exhilarating weeks, we’re thrilled to report he made it.

Every mile had meaning

This wasn’t just an endurance challenge; it was about doing something meaningful for a local cause. Grahame chose The Greenaway Foundation because, as he put it, “every mile makes a difference.” He knew each pedal stroke raised vital funds for families facing real hardships, helping provide essentials like school uniforms and supporting those who might not otherwise afford a Christmas meal or gifts for their children.

“It’s been tough, there’s no doubt about it,” said Grahame. “But the kindness we encountered along the way was remarkable. Someone told us at the start that our journey would be defined by the people we met, and that turned out to be very true.”

The journey: highlights, headwinds and hospitality

Starting at Santa Monica Pier on May 5 and ending in Boston on July 10, the journey soon showed its teeth. Early on, a punishing 4,000-foot climb into the Mojave Desert tested their resolve, while fierce crosswinds turned what should have been a routine stretch into a five-hour ordeal, forcing an unexpected rest day in Seligman, Arizona. Yet even setbacks had silver linings: they used the day to explore the quirky town that inspired Pixar’s “Cars.”

Throughout, human kindness kept them going. People regularly picked up their coffee tabs, a night under soggy canvas was kindly replaced with the offer of a solid roof after they were soaked through by torrential rain, and the offer of a proper cup of M&S tea made all the difference. One memorable evening saw them walk into a local bar to a frosty, tumbleweed-style reception as obvious outsiders. But by the time they left, the mood had transformed – locals were buying their drinks and offering moonshine (which they sensibly declined, knowing they had to get back on the bikes the next day!).

After long days, rest still had to wait…there was laundry to do. Grahame joked they’d become quite the experts by the end of the trip, something their wives would no doubt be pleased to hear. Then there was the food. With many towns along the way devoid of open restaurants or shops, their only option was often the nearest gas station. They quickly became pros at picking the least questionable snacks off the shelves – not exactly the cuisine of choice, and something they’ll be glad to leave behind.

Distractions and determination

Alongside physical and emotional ups and downs, temptation occasionally arose. On reaching Twin Arrows Casino Resort, they briefly considered extending their stay to see Engelbert Humperdinck perform, recognising it as a genuinely rare opportunity given the singer’s age. However, the pair’s unwavering commitment to their chosen charities swiftly refocused their efforts, pushing them back onto their bikes without regret.

The finish line and reflections

Crossing into Boston, the sense of achievement was profound. After deserts, mountains, stray dogs, and blistering heat, they conquered their incredible goal.
When asked what’s next, Grahame laughed, “Nothing planned yet! I’m looking forward to time back with the grandchildren and family. But it was such a wonderful experience, I’m sure we’ll do something again – just on a smaller scale!”

It’s not too late to support Grahame

You can still support Grahame’s fantastic effort by contributing to the valuable work of The Greenaway Foundation. Every penny helps local families struggling with financial hardship, ensuring no child has to go without essentials throughout the year or at Christmas. He aims to reach £10,000, so every extra bit counts!

Click here to visit Grahame’s JustGiving page to donate