Simon Richardson and James Lowsley-Williams are heading to Nepal to tackle the Annapurna Circuit; a 230 km trail that circumnavigates the mountain. Known as the best long distance hike in the world, an experienced hiker will take around 20 days to complete the route on foot; Si and James are attempting to ride it in just 5. Joined by local Nepalese mountain bike legend, Mangal Lama, they’ll battle extreme weather conditions, treacherous single track, and perilous high altitude as they try to complete the iconic Annapurna Circuit.
Zwift Academy Finals is a reality competition series where top amateur cyclists battle for a professional contract. Through intense challenges, training sessions, and real-world tests, finalists push their limits for a chance to turn their virtual racing dreams into a pro cycling career.
In his 10 years as a pro, five were as a member of the Great Britain Cycling Team as a mountain biker, representing his country at six World Championships and the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. A move onto the road followed, riding for British-based professional teams and racing against some of the best riders in the world.