An adventurer who cycled more than 36,000km through 28 countries has raised £23,000 for a mental health charity.
Duncan Covey shared stories from his 477-day journey at Moloko Cycling in southwest London on Thursday, where more than 100 people attended an evening to celebrate his achievement and support his chosen charity, Big Moose.
Covey left London in April 2024 and completed the round-the-world challenge after cycling across Europe, Asia, Australia and North America.
Speaking at the event, he said: “My decision to undertake this journey was not made on a whim. I have always been obsessed with bikes.”
Despite planning the challenge for years, he admitted his departure was less organised than many expected.
He said: “I packed the night before I left and forgot everything. I made up my itinerary as I rode along.”
Covey said he often survived on a limited budget while travelling.
He said: “I lived on bread and chocolate milk for days. My budget was 10 euros for three days.”
Although he faced difficult moments, including an encounter with an armed man demanding money, Covey said the kindness of strangers left a lasting impression.
“I met kind people everywhere. Despite my fair share of challenges, including an encounter with a man with a gun demanding money, the world is a wonderful place. I am more optimistic now after my ride that the world is a good place.”
The event attracted cycling enthusiasts from across London, who met fellow riders and heard about the challenges of completing a round-the-world expedition.
Covey said he was proud to have raised £23,000 for Big Moose, a charity that aims to make mental health support more accessible.
In addition to giving motivational talks at schools and businesses, Covey works part-time in the cycle workshop at Moloko Cycling, Unit 30, Tideway Yard, London SW14.
Feature image credit: Sylvie Richards
