Yorkshire CEO to cycle 1,080 miles from Leeds to Nice in charity race against electric vehicle
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Named ‘Yorkshire Beast Unleashed’, this ambitious challenge pits human endurance against electric car innovation and infrastructure. Martin will cover 1,080 miles on his bike, including a gruelling ascent through the French Alps via "Col de la Bonette", the highest paved road in Europe at an altitude of 2,710 meters.
His rival – business partner at EnjoyTravel.com – Steve Dennis, will navigate a 3,300-mile route through 20 countries in an electric vehicle (EV).
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Hide AdThe adventure begins on June 17, when both participants will set off from Leeds Bradford Airport. Martin aims to cycle 310 miles in just two days from Leeds to Dover before crossing into France. From there, his route will take him through picturesque countryside, daunting mountain passes, and diverse terrain to finish at Nice Airport.


Meanwhile, Steve will face his own hurdles, strategising EV charging stops and navigating different road regulations. Various celebrities will join the pair for parts of their journeys, with the first being “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” runner-up and soap star Owen Warner, and “Hollyoaks” actor Billy Price.
Martin Mansell, CEO of EnjoyTravel.com, said: “This isn’t just a race, it’s a testament to human resilience and determination. We love pushing boundaries and bringing communities together with these challenges, and we’re excited for many people to support and join us for different parts of the race. Both Alzheimer’s Society and Candlelighters are causes close to my heart, and I’m proud to support their life-changing work.”
Steve Dennis added, “Navigating 20 countries in an electric vehicle presents unique challenges, but it’s a great opportunity to showcase how far battery technology has come while supporting two incredible charities and having a bit of fun along the way.”
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Hide AdThe challenge aims to raise vital proceeds for two charities close to Martin and Steve; Alzheimer’s Society, the UK’s leading dementia charity – a cause personal to Martin, whose father has been affected by the disease – and Candlelighters charity based in Yorkshire – where both men live and work – dedicated to supporting children with cancer and their families.

Martin is no stranger to ambitious challenges. In 2024, his Yorkshire Beast Challenge – a 450-mile cycling event across the Yorkshire Dales – raised over £15,000 for Alzheimer’s Society. Now, "The Beast Unleashed" aims to surpass this achievement and raise a target of £50,000. The first £10,000 has already been raised, thanks in large part to the event’s first major sponsor, Maple Parking, an airport parking provider supporting the initial leg of the journey from Leeds to Dover.
For more information, including how to become a sponsor, please visit: https://yorkshirebeast.com/
Donations can be made at https://www.justgiving.com/team/beast-unleashed