RAF High Wycombe servicewoman to cycle from Vietnam to Cambodia for charity

RAF High Wycombe Reservist takes on epic challenge to cycle from Vietnam to Cambodia to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Wing Commander Trish Preston Whyte will be cycling 450km across the two countries over seven days from 17 November to 23 November.

The challenge, arranged by Dream Challenges, will see a group of 40 people travel from Vietnam to Cambodia by bike starting in My Tho on the Mekong Delta in Vietnam and finishing in Ankor Wat, Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Trish retired from RAF regular service aged 38 after serving for 17 years as an Air Traffic Controller. Now based out of High Wycombe, Trish is currently working as an Air Regional Employment Engagement Officer covering nine counties in the southeast region.

Speaking on her decision to take part in the challenge, Trish said: "I had no intentions of doing anything like this as I am not a cyclist, I’m not fit and at some point, I will need a knee replacement from previous injuries. But a friend asked me if I would do it with her as she didn’t want to do it alone. It did coincide with me taking up scuba diving for the first time which I loved, so I thought why not?! Especially as I had seven months to train for it."

Trish continued: "In true military style, I have clocked all my training rides, and I cannot believe the thousands of kilometres that I have covered; that has amazed me especially with my troubled knee. I limp when I walk but I have found a new freedom on a bicycle which is a wonderful feeling and for that I am very grateful to be where I am."

With a family background in the RAF, Trish’s father served for 38 years, and her brothers and husband did too. Trish said: "I have always been part of the RAF, so it is very dear to me, as are all the people who are associated with it.

"I am aware of the fantastic work that the Fund do for those that may need help and I also feel that the Fund is there for those that may fall down the cracks of other organisations and charities; the Fund is always there to help and assist."

Trish is most looking forward to experiencing the country and culture along her ride. She said: "Although the days will be long, I am hoping that there will be much to see which will be a distraction from the miles that need to be cycled.

"Ultimately, I am looking forward to getting to the finishing point at Angkor Wat in Cambodia proudly wearing my Fund branded cycling shirt as then I will know that I did it!"

Trish has raised over £1700 for the Fund so far. You can donate to Trish's fundraiser on JustGiving.