Hailing from the UK, Mark Ayton (59) has contributed more than 20 rides to FulGaz. He has built a reputation for keeping a bike steady whilst climbing insanely steep hills and showing off the stunning English countryside. A favourite of the FulGaz office is the Hardknott (OC-84) and Wrynose Passes.
Mark Ayton
Like many people, Mark cycled when he was young, but gave up when he got his first car. Coming back to cycling in his 40’s was a fun way to offset a sedentary job and growing waistline. Today, a FulGaz ride before work is a regular part of his routine and at 59, he is fitter, healthier and has more energy than he did 20 years ago!
What’s your favourite ride to do in the real world?
Probably the ride over Wrynose and Hardknott in the Lake District. The climbs are epic, so there is always a big sense of achievement getting to the top and the scenery is amazing. The feeling of being with nature on an early morning ride, surrounded by the hills in the isolated valley between the two is always special.
Favourite FulGaz ride & why?
I love most of the UK rides, but perhaps use The Brontë Sisters Loop by Peter Kettle the most. It’s the right length for a quick work out and it has enough up and down to make it interesting.
How did you start filming rides for FulGaz?
Few years ago I took the plunge and bought a smart trainer. Tried the most popular platform, but didn’t like the video game feel, so switched to FulGaz and haven’t looked back. Given the Lake District was under represented, when we had a family vacation there it made sense to take a GoPro and capture some of the official climbs. We had amazing weather and the rides are now on FulGaz for others to enjoy (or suffer).
Favourite cycling memory?
Completing the Open Cycling “Coast to Coast in a Day”. 150 miles is a long way to cycle, but it’s a brilliantly organised event and a great day on the bike. All the better because you cross England and have the feeling of travelling somewhere. Seeing the sea on the horizon after 145 miles is very emotional.