Wales ‘End to End’ success for Cardiff Ajax

On a windy Saturday night last weekend, at just after 7.30pm a team of 16 cyclists from Cardiff’s Ajax Cycling Club rode through the city centre and down to the Norwegian Church to finish their Wales ‘End to End’ challenge, raising more than £4,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care in the process.

The ride had started at 5.15am in Holyhead on Anglesey, and wound its way down through Wales via Porthmadaog, Dolgellau, Caersws, Builth and Brecon over a distance of 210 miles in one day. Despite what had seemed a grim weather forecast for the day, with periods of heavy rain and headwinds predicted, conditions were largely favourable until near Brecon. After almost 170 miles of riding, the team found the climb up the Beacons to Storey Arms in the wind and rain particularly tough.

The End to End ride was dedicated to the memory of Eric Hodge, a founder member of Cardiff Ajax over 60 years ago who passed away in December 2010. Eric has been cared for at Marie Curie’s Holme Towers Hospice in Penarth. Having himself ridden Lands End to John O’Groats at the age of 77 to raise money for the welfare charity of his old regiment, the Welsh Guards, who support of our troops in Afghanistan, this was fitting tribute.

The team was made up Cardiff Ajax club members over wide range of ages, both male and female. Fellow club members provided food and mechanical support from a vehicle provided by club sponsor, Griffin Mill Garages of Pontypridd. Numbers were boosted by other club members who joined the ride for the final 35 miles and through Cardiff to welcome party at the Norwegian Church.

The End to End ride was organised by Tenby native and medical student, Charlotte Ratcliffe who said:

‘I was amazed that so quickly after suggesting this ride to be almost inundated with club members wanting to join. It was a tough but enjoyable day’s riding and spirits in the group remained high, even after the tiredness really started to set in. We certainly would not have been able to do it without our support team.’

For a full report of the ride or for information about Cardiff Ajax Cycling Club, visit: http://www.cardiffajaxcycling.co.uk

To make Gift Aid donation, visit: http://www.justgiving.com/HolyheadCardiff