We’ve got our cycle clips for Route 66

Alan and Gary on Route 66

TWO Saddleworth businessmen have pedalled more than 2,000 punishing miles across America for charity.

Alan Rothwell and Gary Torr, part of a 15-strong cycling squad and support crew, made the trip on the world famous Route 66 to raise cash for a children’s hospice.

Their epic 2,626 mile ride from Chicago to Santa Monica in California wasn’t without drama.

They faced challenging 100-plus mile days in the saddle, crossed the Arizona desert with temperatures in excess of 104F and cycled on roads at up to 8,000ft over the southern Rocky Mountains.

Gary (54), from Grotton and managing director of Dekko, a window systems company, said: “Two days in the middle of the 15-day ride we were hit by bad weather in New Mexico. The wind and rain was unbelievable

“We were sucked towards giant articulated lorries passing very close overtaking us. Then, once they had passed, we were hit by massive overspray completely drenching us. It was scary.”

The climax came as Gary and Alan - at 58 the oldest man on the ride - arrived at the finish line in Santa Monica.

“The reception was wonderful — but we were glad it was over,” Gary said.

So far the team has raised £140,000 from the journey — which will help to fund the £4 million a year cost of running Hope House Hospice near Oswestry.