Preparations for Cardiff Rugby’s bike ride have intensified, with participants clocking up the miles ahead of setting off for Paris, in aid of Cardiff Rugby Community Foundation and #StayStrongForOws.
There less than two weeks until the group of cyclists - which includes a mix of first team stars, staff, supporters and sponsors - set off from Cardiff Arms Park towards the French capital for a ride that will cover 517 kilometres, including 4,512 metres of climbing, before arrival at the Eiffel Tower.
The event follows two previous rides to Paris (2015) and Amsterdam (2016) and will raise crucial funds for the Cardiff Rugby Community Foundation, which uses the power of sport to inspire, engage and improve opportunities for all and encompass the club’s benevolent fund.
The group have been working tirelessly on training and fundraising efforts, with a number of events and initiatives held in recent months, and there is still an opportunity to donate for the cause before they set off on June 20.
One of those taking part in the ride is Cardiff Rugby CEO, Richard Holland, who said: “Some of us taking part in this year’s ride have been involved in previous years, and some haven’t, but it has been great to see everyone showing a huge amount of dedication and sacrifice just to make the start line.
“It promises to be a great week but no doubt there will be some struggles along the way. However, the commitment from the riders just goes to show the importance of the cause at hand.
“The support shown for the Community Foundation through our fundraising efforts has been greatly appreciated, and we are proud to see the difference they make throughout our community on a day-to-day basis.
“Our fundraising efforts continue up to the bike ride and beyond, because the rugby opportunities made available to people of all backgrounds in every corner of our region is a hugely important part of our club.”
Also taking part is High Motive senior engineer, Stuart Rix, who added: "It's the first time I've done anything like this and safe to say I'm excited for the challenge ahead.
"Training has been really tough, and the rider won't get any easier over four days, but at the end of the day we're coming together to raise funds for a superb charity that makes a huge difference to our local community.
"The support for myself and the other riders just goes to show how valuable is the work of the Cardiff Rugby Community Foundation. There will be times when we'll have to dig in deep, but I'll be keeping the cause - and the finishing line - in mind the whole way.
"I've followed Cardiff away previously, but this is a completely different sort of trip - it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! With only two weeks left, the preparation is almost complete and I can't wait to set of from the Arms Park."
For more information on how you can support the Cardiff to Paris Bike Ride, please click HERE