The Ordinary Decent Gamer is back! It has been a while, but I’m back in business with a brief update. I’ve settled into the daily doctorial grind, and with it comes the dreaded commute. Sitting in bumper to bumper traffic on the dark mornings isn’t something that interests me. Good thing I skipped cars altogether and went straight to my bike instead. My morning commute takes me out of Belfast City centre and along the Comber Greenway, safe from the hectic bustle of traffic. I travel about six miles to get to the Ulster Hospital, and six miles home. It’s a great excuse to get outside and get some exercise, as I would never make time for it otherwise. The rain doesn’t deter me much, either, as there are changing facilities at the hospital. I just get ready when I arrive into work instead of before I leave.

Six miles is one thing, but tomorrow we will be cycling 70 km, around 43 miles. This may not be far for a lot of cyclists, but it will be the greatest distance I’ve cycled by 15 miles (and that route was only as long as it was because I got lost along the way). I’m going to be cycling the Step Up Cycle for Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke alongside my dad, in memory of my grandfather, Bertie Douglas. Granda was a great person all round, and a fantastic role model. NICHS was his chosen charity, so dad thought it would be fitting to take part in the event. It’s the first proper event I’ve cycled in, making me nervous and incredibly excited at the same time. The route covers a number of famous landmarks along the North Coast, including the Dark Hedges and the Giant’s Causeway to name a few. It’ll be a challenge, but one we’re ready to tackle.

If you want to support us along our (brief) journey, please consider donating to NICHS directly, or through my Just Giving campaign page. Wish us luck!