Cyclists back in saddle for an incredible achievement
MORE than 180 cyclists have ridden more than 126 miles from Taunton to Miskin in aid of a local bereavement charity.
The two-day cycle ride all for 2 Wish Upon a Star is the charity’s major annual fundraiser and has raised over £313,000 and featured more than 1,000 cyclists over the last five years.
Called Wickets and Wheels, they set off from Taunton on Friday, and all the money raised from the event will go towards the charity set up following the tragic deaths of Paul and George Burke.
This year’s ride marked the fifth anniversary of the event, and the last in its current form as organisers look to incorporate more Welsh locations.
2 Wish Upon a Star events manager Louise Sweeney said this year’s ride was tougher than ever. She said: “It’s been another fantastic event where we have again raised vital funds for the charity.
“The ride this year was particularly gruelling as avoiding a hectic Champions League focused Cardiff meant adding more hills and an extra six miles, as the riders cycled through Newport and Caerphilly.
“However, our dedicated riders again grit their teeth and powered through to the finish line and welcome home party in Miskin.
“I’d like to thank all the volunteers, supporters and staff who have again helped make this event the enormous success it is.
“We will be changing things up a little next year so that we can begin incorporating more areas of Wales and the emergency units that make such a difference to families.”
Covering 126 miles in total, the two-day cycle saw participants begin in Taunton before riding to Portishead, where they stayed overnight before cycling back to Miskin.
The charity was set up by George’s mum, and Paul’s wife, Rhian Burke in a bid to improve bereavement services in hospitals across Wales.
She said the ride was a symbol for what can be accomplished.
“This year marked the fifth anniversary of the ride and I’d like to pay special tribute to all the riders who have been with us through every single ride.
“I’d also like to thank Haydn Pryor for working tirelessly to organise the event each year.
“Without his support, the ride simply would not have been possible.”
Rhian added: “The cycle ride will continue next year, with some route changes to keep it fresh. We originally started the ride from Taunton to Miskin as Paul used to play cricket for both Queens College in Taunton and Miskin Cricket Club.
“Wickets and Wheels is a very special event that includes people of all abilities from across Wales. It’s hard to describe, but when so many people who have all been touched by loss in some way come together to achieve something, it’s incredible.
“There is a quiet satisfaction, knowing that together you have stumbled and struggled, but made it to the other side.
“You realise that no matter what, there can always be hope and it’s the purpose of 2 Wish Upon A Star to make sure no family is left without support.”