A CYCLIST from Minety will be tackling mountainous climbs around the world-famous Yosemite National Park in the USA, for causes close to her heart.

Paula Power will be flying out to America later this month to take on a 250-mile ride from Yosemite to San Francisco, which will take five days in 30 degree heat.

The 49-year-old Minety resident has been doing 50km bike rides, four days a week in preparation for the challenge, which she says will be a tough one.

“I hadn’t done much cyclin, training wise, for about three years,” she said. “So the training has been quite full on.

“I’ve had to be quite selective with the routes I’ve been doing as the trip will be quite mountainous.

“Having a bit of support with the fundraising is what’s going to help me get it done.”

Paula is raising money for two causes. The first, is to help fund refurbishment of a ‘trim’ trail at Minety Primary School.

The fitness equipment is accessible to children at break times to stay fit, but it has fallen into an unusable state currently.

Paula says she doesn’t want children missing out on the opportunity to have fun on the trail, so is trying to raise money for its renovation.

The second, is Mind, a charity that deals with mental health.

“There is a need at the moment for publicity of mental health issues, so I’d like to raise a profile,” said Paula.

“I know friends and family that have struggled with mental health, so it is a cause I think would be good to support.”

To help Paula in her fundraising efforts, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/paula-power