Wanstead cyclist riding 5,000 miles in year in memory of sister

Daniello Aspeling, 31, with his sister Bernadine, who died aged 23 in 2010 after an asthma attack. [Picture: Daniello Aspeling/Asthma UK] (Image: Archant)

Daniello Aspeling, 31, took part in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 race for Asthma UK, finishing in just over four hours.

He is fundraising in memory of his sister Bernadine, 23, who died of an asthma attack in 2010.

Daniello, of Sylvan Road, Wanstead, said: “It was really good. My average speed was higher than I expected.

“We had an awful lot of rain and at some points the roads were flooding. It was supposed to be 100 miles but was reduced to 86.”

Daniello Aspeling, 31 is riding 5,000 miles in a year in memory of his late sister Bernadine, who died after suffering an asthma attack (Image: Archant)

South African-born Daniello has tasked himself with riding 5,000 miles in a year for Asthma UK.

He began in February and has so far clocked up 3,104.56 miles, raising £1,873.75 in the process.

Prior to RideLondon, which took place on Sunday, Daniello took on events such as the Cape Argus Pick ‘n’ Pay Cycle Tour, in Cape Town, South Africa, and the London to Paris ride.

He said: “I have to admit in the beginning it was hard; my fitness wasn’t as good.

“The toughest psychologically was RideLondon, having that sort of rain, but physically was probably the Cape Argus. It was really hot and had 60km winds.

“But I did it for my sister.”

Daniello is already “looking forward” to his next race, which may be the Wiggle Yorkshire Tour in September.

He hopes his efforts for Asthma UK would have made Bernadine proud.

“It was such a shock when she died. She was studying to become a nurse and she actually got an award that year for outstanding studying.

“She probably would have called me a nutcase for doing this, but I think she would definitely be over the moon.”

For information on how to participate in RideLondon 2015 for Asthma UK, visit asthma.org.uk/Event/ridelondon100.