Veteran Chris Willmott to cycle 1,382km across Europe on 80-year-old bike for Taxi Charity
- taxicharity
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Parachute Regiment veteran, Chris Willmott, is set to embark on an extraordinary solo cycling challenge this August, riding 1,382 km (859 miles) from Auschwitz in Poland to Arnhem in the Netherlands, on an 80-year-old, single-speed bicycle.
The journey, which begins on 17 August 2025, retraces a route steeped in wartime history, ending in Arnhem - the site of the pivotal Operation Market Garden during WWII.
Chris' mission is not just a personal endurance feat, but a powerful tribute to the memory of the Allied soldiers and the sacrifices made for freedom.
A bike with a story and serious challenges
The vintage single-speed bicycle, lovingly restored by Dutch bike mechanic Paul Hendriks of Paul Hendriks Tweewielers in Wolfheze, represents a bygone era. But its age presents real risks.
A recent inspection in the Netherlands revealed the bicycle is unlikely to survive the full journey, with concerns ranging from component fatigue to frame integrity.
Despite this, Chris is pressing on - determined to honour history through grit, resilience and remembrance.
“This is more than just a ride,” Chris says. “It’s about marking the path of liberation, remembering those who never made it home, and showing what’s still possible, even on something built eight decades ago.”
The route
The 17-day route passes through Poland, Germany and the Netherlands, with stops in historic cities including Kraków, Wrocław, Berlin and Magdeburg. It concludes on 2 September 2025 in Arnhem, timed to coincide with commemorations of Operation Market Garden.
A highlight of the final leg will be a stop at the Glider Museum in Wolfheze, a tribute to the airborne troops and glider pilots of WWII.
Chris Willmott continued: “The bonds forged in service run deep, and the well-being of our veteran community remains close to my heart. That's why I'm undertaking a significant personal challenge: to cycle from Auschwitz to Arnhem - a journey of approximately 1,400 km.
“This ride is more than just a physical feat; it's a symbolic passage through the landscape of European history. Auschwitz stands as a stark reminder of the depths of human suffering and the vital importance of fighting for freedom and human dignity. Arnhem, the site of the heroic but ultimately costly Operation Market Garden, echoes the immense sacrifices made by Allied forces, including many airborne troops, for that very freedom.
“As an ex-Para, the spirit of resilience and duty is ingrained within me. This cycle connects those historical sacrifices with the present-day needs of our veterans. The Taxi Charity for Military Veterans provides invaluable support, offering companionship, transportation to vital appointments, and a sense of community to those who have served our country.
“They ensure that the isolation and challenges some veterans face are met with understanding and practical help.
“This journey from a place of immense loss to a place synonymous with the bravery of our airborne forces is my way of honouring the past while directly supporting the present and future of our veteran community.
“Every kilometre I pedal will be in dedication to their service and in support of the incredible work of the London-based Taxi Charity.”
Challenge schedule – key stops
Start: Auschwitz, Poland
End: Arnhem, Netherlands
17 Aug – Auschwitz → Kraków
21 Aug – Olesno → Wrocław
25 Aug – Słubice → Berlin
29 Aug – Helmstedt → Hanover
02 Sep – Enschede → Arnhem
Total: 1,382 km/ 859 miles across 17 days
A dedicated supporter of veteran causes, Chris’ ride echoes the values of the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, with which he has long been involved.
Click link to donate to Chris' justgiving page:
