The 1st chapter of the VIA ultra race – a 4,000 km, unsupported biking adventure across Europe! 

While many spend their summer holidays by the beach, a few choose to push their limits and do incredible things. Our amazing colleague, David Sherrington, Project Engineer at Danfoss Fire Safety, is one of those few.

David recently took part in the 1st chapter of the VIA ultra race – a 4,000 km, unsupported biking adventure across Europe!
This first chapter drew inspiration from Hannibal’s (the Carthaginian general) legendary march to Italy (218 BC). This race is no ordinary ride, as riders must carry everything, they need themselves, resupply at local shops and cafes along the way, and plan their own routes between checkpoints. Apart from crossing mountain range and experience stunning landscapes and sunsets, the race also included:

• Full distance: 4,000 km / 39,000 m ascent.
• Route: From Cartagena, Spain to Giovinazzo, Italy.
• David completed: 3,260 km / 34,000 m ascent (with a well-deserved train ride from Florence).
• Time: No official limit, but the finishers’ party was 14 days after the starts.
• Temperatures: Ranged from 12°C to 42°C.
• Countries: Spain, France, and Italy.

Next year’s adventure continues with Chapter 2, themed around Germanicus (Roman general and politician), taking riders through Italy, Germany, and Holland.

Huge congratulations to David for this epic achievement!