Epiosde 115: Phill Hargreaves (Part 1)

A 1984 Cycle Tour from the UK to Australia – Via the Roof of the World

Thi s is the first of two episodes featuring Phill Hargreaves. In the first part, Phill shares his incredible story of setting off to cycle from the UK to Australia in April,1984s. A time long before smartphones and GPS devices made these kind of global adventures more accessible.

A Childhood of Cycling Adventures

Phill’s passion for adventure didn’t start on his journey to Everest. It began much earlier and from a young age, he had been exploring the great outdoors on his bike. Encouraged by his parents, who were avid cyclists themselves, Phill joined the Cyclists’ Touring Club (CTC) around the age of 11 or 12. This decision opened up a world of exploration, from the scenic landscapes of Wales to the rugged terrains of the Scottish Highlands. With the CTC, Phill found a camaraderie with which he could, share experiences, meet friends, and discovering the UK countryside.

The Spur of the Moment Decision

As fate would have it, a twist of events led to the birth of Phill’s epic journey. During a ride to celebrate his 21st birthday, Phil broke his leg in an accident, which eventually led him to reassess his plans. A conversation with his friend Dave Clark during a cycling trip to Scotland was the catalyst for their ambitious plan to cycle from Derby to Australia. Originally considering a cycling trip around America, their plans evolved towards the allure of the East and the high mountains of the Himalayas.

An Unexpected Turn in Turkey

With two Daves by his side, Phill set off on this grand adventure. However, the team of three became a duo unexpectedly in Turkey. Dave Cross, the third cyclist, mysteriously parted ways with Phill and Dave Clark. Despite the absence of modern communication tools, the group had a contingency plan. They left messages at various post offices along their route, hoping to reconnect. They never found out what happened and why he left, although many years later Phill would learn that Dave Cross had eventually found his way to Bangkok before returning home.

The Challenges of the Journey

The journey was not without its difficulties. Crossing Iran on a seven-day bus visa amidst the Iran-Iraq war was an eye opening experience to say the least. Phill recounts the chaos at the border crossings and the intimidating presence of young revolutionary guards. It was a testament to the resilience and hospitality of the Iranian people that they encountered kindness and warmth despite the hostile political climate.

A Zest for Adventure leading to Everest Base Camp

Phill’s early love for cycling and exploration was evident in his journey. Having already cycled extensively through Europe, the pull towards the unknown of the Himalayas was irresistible. Despite the challenges of the rugged terrain and high altitudes, Phill and Dave Clark pushed through, carrying their bikes when necessary, to reach the legendary Everest Base Camp.

The Legacy Continues

Phill’s son Jamie, is currently reenacting his father’s journey 40 years later. The love for cycling and adventure seems to be a family tradition, as Phill plans to meet his son Ollie for another ride along the Pamir Highway.

Keep your eye out for Part 2 of Phill’s story to where the adventure continues. We hear how from Nepal Phill would continue his journey solo all the way to Australia and how he would eventually cycle all the way back home to the UK – arriving at his family home three years after departing on the original journey.

You can follow Phil via his social media account on instagram – @hargreavesphill

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