I have teamed up with Sustrans and BikeIt to challenge 20,000 children around the UK to race around the world.

March 2009 marks the launch of a month long national virtual bike race around the world. Pupils, parents and teachers from over 140 schools across England will set out on a 46,000 mile race, following the route I took round the world. Pupils will be virtually following in my footsteps through 60 different countries as they travel around the world.

The race has been organised by the sustainable transport charity, Sustrans. The race aims to inspire and get pupils, parents and teachers cycling on a regular basis. Over the next four weeks 19 Sustrans Bike It Officers will be aiming to get over 20,000 children cycling to and from school.

Bike It Officer, Kathy Bashford said: “This unique race will act as a great way for the whole school community to join together as they take on other schools from across the country. The most important part of the month long race will be to show pupils, parents and teachers how easy choosing two wheels instead of four for the journey to school can be.

“It is vital that we give young people in communities across the country the opportunity to travel in ways, which are healthy, sustainable and fun. Cycling to school has so many benefits for pupils such as improved health, confidence and concentration as well as the obvious benefits for the environment in which they will grow up in.”

My take on it all: “It is fantastic to be able to team up with Sustrans and use my own adventure to encourage children from across the country to choose cycling as a real alternative for the school run. Cycling to school is great way for young people to get fit and healthy. I would encourage as many pupils as possible to join their Bike It Officers in this great challenge. Good luck to all those taking part and I look forward to tracking your progress around the world."

Learn more here: tinyurl.com/dxmmpg

Film copyright 2009: Alistair Waterson