RIDING a bike 476 miles through the Rockies in seven days ... that's what boozing does to you!

For it was a chance remark over a pint in a Whitefield pub that led to pals Terry Finnegan and Eddie Fairclough embarking on one of the world's most demanding amateur cycle events - Ride The Rockies in Colorado, America.

The remark was made by Jacqueline Estlund, who was revisiting her hometown after emigrating a few years back. She mentioned a "nightmare cycle race back home". Bike enthusiasts Terry and Eddie, both from Bury, looked at each other and, unlike most other sane people, decided to have a bash.

That was last year. They flew to the USA and, though it was exhausting, completed the course.

But while others might have left it there, the intrepid pair have returned this year to do the whole thing over again.

Terry and Eddie flew across the Atlantic on Friday and are currently three days into the week-long ride.

Before they went the pair told the Bury Times what was in store.

Eddie said: "Denver is at 5,000 feet above sea level and the first thing that hits you is the thin atmosphere. Just running up a flight of stairs leaves you breathless.

"It was mentally and physically challenging. Terry lost more than 26lbs and I lost 20lbs!"

Terry added: "It is the ultimate challenge and some people might think we're mad for doing it but it is a once in a lifetime experience.

"Last time we were so worried about completing the course that we perhaps didn't enjoy it as much as we should have done.

"This time we'll relax a bit more and enjoy it because the scenery is absolutely stunning."

Terry, of Bury New Road, Whitefield, and Eddie, of Church Meadows, Unsworth, have taken no chances with preparation.

They have spent the last four months clocking up at least 200 miles a week, riding their bikes around the hills of Lancashire and Yorkshire.

They started this year's Ride The Rockies challenge on Saturday in Trinidad, near the New Mexico border, before finishing this weekend - hopefully - in Idaho Springs Colorado.

In case things get too much there are aid stations every 15 miles providing food, drink and cycle maintenance. Accommodation along the route varies from staying with local families, in bed and breakfasts or hotels.

The pair are due back home on Monday where they will relax for a few days to ease their blisters. But they won't be resting on their laurels for long.

Next month they will in the saddle again taking part in the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride.

Rather them than us!