Wayne Cycles to the “Bottom of the World” to Raise Funds for Barnsley Hospice

Wayne Exley, from Barnsley, has completed an incredible 3-month fundraising challenge, cycling over 4,000 kilometres from Santiago, Chile, to Ushuaia, Argentina—the southernmost city in the world. He has raised more than £1,600 for Barnsley Hospice.

Inspired by the outstanding care his sister-in-law Patricia and close friend Howard received at the hospice, Wayne embarked on this journey to give something back to the charity. He began his ride in December 2023, and completed it in mid-March 2024, cycling through some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. Major landmarks included Chile’s awe-inspiring Carretera Austral, the Andes, Perito Moreno Glacier, and Fitz Roy Mountain.

Reflecting on his ride, Wayne shared, “The best part of cycle touring is the freedom, and the hardest part is giving up that freedom. Pedalling 4,170 kilometres was a big achievement, but surpassing my £1,000 fundraising target for Barnsley Hospice made me feel especially proud.”

Despite careful preparation, Wayne faced challenges travelling solo, often going days without speaking to anyone. He rode through some challenging landscapes, often on gravel roads. Wayne also battled the fierce Patagonian winds on the cold, grass-covered plains of Tierra del Fuego. Despite this, his reasons for undertaking the challenge and the support of the people he met along the way kept him motivated.

“The kindness of strangers was inspiring, and hearing their stories is something I will cherish forever,” Wayne said. “Cycling through the natural wonders of Chile and Argentina was a privilege. The mountain climbs, isolation and seemingly endless pampas tested me both physically and mentally. This experience has made me more resilient and mentally stronger.”

Wayne emphasised the importance of supporting Barnsley Hospice: “Many people face challenges greater than mine and may need the hospice’s support. So, if you can, please consider donating today to help people in our community who need Barnsley Hospice’s support the most. I give my thanks to everyone who has contributed so far.”

Vicky Stead, Community Relationships Manager at Barnsley Hospice, added her gratitude to Wayne and his supporters, saying, “Wayne’s extraordinary journey and the funds he has raised highlight both his incredible dedication and the generosity of our community. We can’t thank Wayne enough for his support and the positive difference it will make to the people we support at the hospice.”

To donate to Barnsley Hospice in support of Wayne’s challenge, visit his JustGiving page here.