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Pham Cong Luat, known as "Gom", is a Vietnamese Manchester United fan, cyclist and mental health advocate. He is cycling from Vietnam to Old Trafford, Manchester — a journey spanning thousands of kilometres across multiple continents — to prove that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when driven by passion and purpose.

Why is he cycling to Old Trafford?

Gom has been a Manchester United supporter since childhood. Old Trafford represents the culmination of a lifelong dream — and a symbol that dreams are worth pursuing no matter the distance. The journey also carries a deeper message about mental health, resilience, and the power of sport to unite people across cultures and borders.

How far is the journey?

The expedition began on 15 September 2025 and covers approximately 22,000 km across some 25 countries and 3 continents — from Vietnam through Southeast Asia, India, Central Asia and Turkey, and across Europe to Manchester. The exact distance depends on the route taken through each country.

How can I support Gom?

You can support by donating on GoFundMe, contributing to Blue Dragon (the expedition's charity partner), sharing the story on social media, or becoming a journey partner. The Blue Dragon fundraising goal is US$31,000. Every form of support matters and helps Gom keep moving forward.

What equipment does Gom use?

Gom uses a robust touring bicycle equipped with panniers, navigation devices, camping gear, and safety equipment. The exact kit list will be published in the Equipment section as the journey progresses. Reliability and repairability are prioritised over weight.

What bike does he ride?

Gom rides a purpose-built expedition touring bicycle chosen for its durability, repairability anywhere in the world, and ability to carry the weight of a long-distance crossing. Details will be confirmed and published as the expedition begins.

How does he navigate?

Gom primarily uses Organic Maps for offline navigation, combined with Polarsteps for live tracking. Planning is done on Komoot for cycling-specific routing. Google Translate with offline packs helps communication in non-English speaking countries.

How is the journey funded?

The expedition is funded through personal savings, GoFundMe donations, sponsorship partnerships, and community support. Blue Dragon charity donations go directly to the organisation. If you would like to become a commercial partner, please contact journeyofgom@gmail.com.

Can I meet Gom on the road?

Gom welcomes meetings with supporters, local cycling communities and Manchester United fans along the route. Follow his live position on Polarsteps to see where he is. If you are in his path and would like to arrange a meeting, reach out through the contact page.

How do I follow the journey live?

Follow Gom's live movements on Polarsteps — this is the official live tracking platform where he shares daily updates, photos and route progress. This Makutet hub is the official expedition home, providing context, updates and the permanent archive. Subscribe to the newsletter to receive major milestone alerts.

Blue Dragon Children's Foundation is a charity based in Vietnam that rescues children from poverty, trafficking and exploitation. They provide education, safe homes and futures for some of the most vulnerable children in Asia. Gom has chosen Blue Dragon as his expedition charity partner.

What is Makutet's role in the journey?

Makutet is the Official Journey Partner — providing the expedition hub, digital infrastructure, travel intelligence and content platform. Makutet helps tell Gom's story to a global audience and provides resources for followers wanting to travel inspired by his route.

What is the mental health message of the journey?

Gom has experienced and observed the reality of mental health challenges in Vietnam and across communities. This journey is proof that confronting fear, maintaining purpose, and pursuing something meaningful — even impossibly large — is one of the most powerful tools for mental wellbeing. He hopes his journey inspires others to find their own equivalent.