Often it’s the simplest ideas that prove the most compelling. And so it is with Chase the Sun. The challenge? Ride across the country in one day; coast to coast; east to west; dawn to dusk. Last year, 700 cyclists from around the world took part in the event’s 10th-anniversary ride. Originally conceived by Olly Moore, the concept is unique: it is a ride, not a race; it is a collective endeavour. The ride attracts cyclists from many countries and backgrounds, from trained athletes to determined novices, experienced long-distance adventurers to city commuters. There is no timing or ranking, no medals, only the ultimate success of chasing the sun across the country to view the sunset on the coastline. In 2019, the event will be bigger and more exciting than ever. At midsummer sunrise on 22 June, riders will be able to chase the sun some 200 miles over a choice of three different routes: in south and north UK, and Italy. The southern leg starts at sunrise on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent and finishes at sunset in Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset. The northern leg is Tynemouth to Prestwick. In Italy, the ride traverses the country from Cesenatico to Tirrenia. The event is free, but there are support and accommodation options.
Register at chasethesun.org.

Cool kit

Keep feet fresh and dry on even the longest bike rides, and amaze your mates with these wacky designs. Stance Feel 360 socks £14.99, stance.eu.com

Email Martin at martin.love@observer.co.uk or follow him on Twitter @MartinLove166