Meet Todd: MAMIL, Teacher, Adventurer
Todd Whitlow might describe himself as just another “Middle-Aged Man in Lycra,” but behind the acronym is a life rich with global cycling adventures. Based in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Todd spent much of his career in cyber security sales. Though the job was rewarding, he knew it wasn’t the final chapter.
“There was family, friends, and adventures to write about,” Todd says. So, a few years ago, he semi-retired, began teaching at a university, and started ticking off cycling dreams around the world.
Hooked on Touring: From Europe to the UK
Todd’s first real taste of long-distance adventure cycling came in 2016 with a self-supported ride from Bristol to Istanbul, joined by his brother-in-law and a friend. After weeks of seeing Europe at 10-15 mph, he was hooked.
In 2019, it was Todd’s turn to pick the next big ride: John O’Groats to Land’s End (JOGLE) with Bike the UK for MS. “It was a terrific fit,” he says. “Having support, exploring the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District, Bristol, Bath, Devon, Cornwall—all while supporting the MS cause.”
His most important tip for a Bike the UK ride is “Never try to be the first person to leave camp in the morning, nor be first to enter camp at the end of the day. It’s about the journey.”
Why He Keeps Coming Back: Friendship, Fun, and Focus
Todd has since returned for more Bike the UK for MS adventures, including the North Coast 500 (NC500) and multiple other rides. This year, he is returning to tackle Lon Las Cymru, riding the length of Wales. “The friendships, the purpose, and the routes are simply terrific,” he shares.
Over the years, he’s ridden alongside people from Ghana, Canada, England, New Zealand, and beyond. And with personal connections to MS in his extended family and circle of friends, each ride adds meaning to the miles.
Unforgettable Moments: Laughter, Wild Camping, and Big Proposals
Todd has no shortage of memorable moments from the road. One involves a teammate unknowingly sharing private phone conversations aloud from his tent—”the widest eyes and largest jaw drop I’ve ever seen, when the other cyclists explained they overhead him” he laughs. Others include a COVID-era introduction to wild camping (“Not as bad as this pampered boy expected”), and celebrating the end of JOGLE 2019 with a perfect evening team meal.
And who could forget the rider who proposed to his fiancée at the end of the tour—and invited the whole group to the wedding?
Todd and the 2019 John O’Groats to Land’s End team
Solo vs Group Rides: Why BTUKFMS Wins Every Time
Todd has also cycled solo across Thailand, Cambodia, and the vast expanse of Wyoming. While he appreciates the solitude for about a week, he’s quick to say he misses the shared experience of group rides.
“On BTUKFMS trips, we share stories, laughs, and life perspectives. That magic just isn’t there when you’re alone in a tent.”
Overcoming Challenges Together
Even the hardest days on the bike become favorite memories when shared. One brutal day in the northeast of Scotland brought nonstop 35 mph headwinds and torrential rain. “We still talk about it and laugh. That’s the kind of atmosphere these trips create.”
Riding with Intent: Learning from MS Warriors
Some of Todd’s most meaningful encounters have been with riders living with MS. Like the marathoner-turned-cyclist who completed JOGLE on a custom-built three-wheeler—always the first to rise and never one to complain.
Or the first-time adventure cyclist who, on the NC500 in 2022, transformed from cautious newbie to one of the strongest riders on the trip. Their perseverance reminds Todd to stay grateful and present.
A Changed Perspective
Todd has seen first-hand how far MS research and treatment have come. “People I’ve met are leading vibrant, active lives. They’re raising families, working full-time, staying active, and giving back.”
Every ride deepens his belief in the importance of funding research and supporting the MS community.
Giving Back: From Rider to Board Member
Todd’s involvement now goes beyond the bike. He serves on the Board of Directors for Bike the US for MS, working closely with leadership like James Whateley to support both the UK and US arms of the charity.
He still rides every summer in the UK and US. “I cherish the friendships that have grown from this experience, and I look forward to reuniting with old friends and creating new adventures.”
Advice for Future Riders—Especially International Ones
Todd wants more international riders to take the leap. His top tips:
- Train enough to enjoy 60-70 mile days comfortably
- Travel light—less is more
- Bring your own bike in a cardboard box with basic disassembly
- Don’t forget to drop the derailleur hanger
And while you’re there, stay a few extra days to explore. “Sightseeing in Edinburgh, London, Manchester—I’m looking forward to Cardiff next.”
Final Words: “Just Do It”
Todd’s message to anyone considering signing up, especially from across the Atlantic?
“Just do it. You will thank yourself.”
He should know—he’s been doing it for years, and his chapters are still being written, one ride at a time. If you’d like to support Todd’s efforts on Lon Las Cymru this summer, please donate here.
Considering traveling over to the UK for a ride this summer. Get in touch, we can help with the logistics involved with traveling from abroad.
