Meet Arran

Ahead of our London to Paris cycle challenge, we spoke to avid cyclist Arran Linton-Smith. Arran shares with us what he loves most about cycling, why he has chosen to fundraise for the National Autistic Society previously, and what advice he’d give to those taking on the multi-day cycling challenge.

 

When did you first know or start to think you were autistic, and what does being autistic mean for you? 

I always knew that there was something different about me. I always felt that I was an outsider, whether it was at school, at work, or in any social groups which I tried to be a part of. But because I originally worked hard to fit into a non-autistic world around me, I was completely unaware of the possibility that I could be autistic.   

Around 2012, a few people around me started to ask me if I was possibly on the autism spectrum, which got me thinking about this and doing some research, where I came across the Cambridge University AQ (Autism Spectrum Quotient) test. This test indicated that there was a high probability that I possibly was autistic, which is when I started pursuing a formal diagnosis. 

Being autistic for me is about being accepted for who I am, what I am and how I am. It’s also about holding the door open for the next autistic person so that they also have the opportunity to thrive and grow, especially within the workplace and society around them. 

 

How did you first get involved in cycling, and what do you enjoy most about it?  

I first got involved in cycling in my early 40s, as this was an activity that I could share with my young son. What I enjoy most about cycling is simply the freedom to travel and the challenges that cycling has given me. I have cycled in Italy and the Canadian Rockies; I have ridden from John O' Groats to Land’s End in seven days; and I have cycled in the Himalayas twice, including cycling over the Khardung La – one of the highest motorable roads in the world at 18,380ft above sea level! I have also completed the Tommy Godwin challenge of cycling 206 miles in one day on six occasions.    

 

Why did you decide to fundraise for the National Autistic Society previously?   

I first decided to fundraise for the National Autistic Society after the 2012 Olympics, when it was announced that there was going to be an annual legacy event on the Olympic road racecourse. As I passionately wanted to do this, and after all the support that I received from the National Autistic Society following my autism diagnosis, I wanted to give something back as a massive thank you, which is why I originally supported Team Autism through Ride London 100. 

 

What are your three top tips for anyone taking part in a multi-day cycling event? 

My top three tips are: 

1. Ensure that you have the necessary level of fitness to undertake a multi-day cycling event. 
2. Have a comfortable road bike which is suitable for the pace and distance you are going to cycle, together with the necessary comfortable clothing. 
3. Ensure that your bicycle is suitably maintained and prepared for the event. 

Take on an epic cycling challenge with Team Autism by joining our London to Paris cycle.