In August this year, Simon Middlemas and a group of friends, took on the challenge of cycling from north to south Wales to raise funds for Maggie’s Cancer Care in Swansea. The team of nine included our very own Cath Shearer, and former Sport Wales staff, Bernie Dietzig and Rhys Shorney.
The ride – completed over 2 and a half days – covered 372km from the top of Holyhead to Swansea – via the Menai Strait, Snowdonia, Aberystwyth, and Aberaeron – before rolling up to the doors of Maggie’s, where they were met by a crowd of well-wishers and staff.
With the wind in their sails, they climbed up 3,500m of hills, fuelled by fish and chips, Welsh cakes, Chamonix butter and a lot of laughs. They even made a brief detour to climb Ffordd Pen Llech (in Harlech), which at 40% gradient, once boasted the title of steepest street in the world.
The ride was for a cause close to their hearts. Simon’s wife, Heidi, was diagnosed with breast cancer in March this year. It’s been a very difficult time for the family. From very early on, after diagnosis, Maggie’s has been a great source of support for Si & Heidi.
Every mile the team rode was for Heidi and for everyone who needs the wonderful care and support that Maggie’s provides. Heidi finished her final round of chemotherapy last week and moves onto the next stage of treatment with renewed hope. This ride was the latest completed by Sport Wales staff for Maggie’s in the past few years and combined they have raised over £10,000 for Maggie’s Cardiff and Swansea.
Simon wanted to say how grateful he has been for the amazing support he and Heidi have received from Sport Wales over the past 6 months, and in particular Cath and the environments team in the Institute.
The north2south ride in august raised more than £4.300 alone. There is still time to donate if you haven’t already, at: https://tinyurl.com/45v8b5sk