On a sunny Saturday morning on the 3^rd of May, a band of intrepid cyclists set off in a minibus from upper school accompanied by a borrowed van full of the ‘best engineered bicycles in the world’ – probably!  With two members of staff to accompany them on their ordeal – Mrs Linforth and Mr Rooke; we were also joined by Angharad’s Mum and Mrs Linforth’s best friend.  This happy bunch of 15 made our way north to sunny Merthyr to begin our first Charity Maracycle back to Cardiff.

The budding cyclists made quick work of relieving their bikes from the van – and then they were on their way.  The route started at Mrs Linforth’s house at Cefn Coed viaduct and wound it’s way south alongside the beautiful River Taff.  The majority of the group were Year 13 Geography students – with a few taggers-on making up our numbers.  There was an assortment of interesting cycling gear on show – with Sophia’s golden cycling shorts giving the sun a run for its money.

We made our way steadily down to Abercynon – nearly half way on our 26 mile trek; and we had a well earned break outside the Navigation pub – not inside – honestly.  Then the last push of the journey brought a few blisters – Fadzil, and a few sore backsides – but all were determined not to give in.  We met Mr Taylor at Pontypridd – and his encouragement spurred us onto the finish line in Hailey Park.

The down hills were too rare – but thoroughly enjoyed, and we eventually swept into Cardiff all in one piece – but walking rather oddly.

Our support team of Liz King and her husband as well as Mr Linforth who was on hand to offer 4 wheels instead of 2 – were greatly appreciated – and we thank them for their efforts.

The Mara-Cycle proved a real success, in terms of a new fitness regime for some – they know they definitely DON’T want to cycle ever again; in terms of new sports fashion – we know we don’t want to wear gold, but we would want a full armchair in place of a narrow seat in any future events, AND we raised an AMAZING £1,400 for Cancer research Wales !!

So a big thank you to those who sponsored us and offered support – and we WILL be doing another similar event next year for Cancer Research Wales – so keep your eyes peeled, and your bike oiled!