An incredible 462 walkers braved the heat to take part in The Big Walk 2018 in aid of Prostate Cymru on Saturday 30th June. The walk, which is celebrating its fifth year, saw the participants walk 30 miles in approximately nine hours from the Principality Stadium, Cardiff to Kenfig Hill RFC, Bridgend.
Participants arrived bright and early to start the walk on the covered pitch inside the iconic Principality Stadium. Walkers, many of who were embracing this year’s blue wig theme, grabbed selfies with Wesley The Walnut, Prostate Cymru’s new mascot supporting the new “Look After Your Third Nut” awareness campaign. David Adnum led a zumba warm up before Prostate Cymru Chairman Andy Thomas gave a health and safety briefing and shared good luck messages from Welsh and international celebrities including Eve Myles, Scott Mills and Colin Jackson.
Broadcaster and rugby coach Sean Holley, a participant in this year’s event, took to the stage kindly provided by Gorilla Audio and Hire to introduce special guest Sam Warburton OBE. The duo discussed training, the upcoming season and the challenge of the walk ahead. Sam offered walkers words of encouragement and thanked them for taking part in the challenge to support men with prostate cancer. The talented Steffan Hughes from Only Men Aloud and Stefanie Harvey Powell sang the national anthem, raising the spirits of the walkers and giving them that extra boost as they set off.
Walkers were supported as they tackled the tough thirty mile route in extremely hot conditions through Cardiff, the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend by a great team of marshalls and volunteers who ensured walkers were safe and provided the group with snacks and water. St John’s Ambulance Cymru were a brilliant support throughout the route, assisting with first aid and injuries.
Walkers crossed the finish line at Kenfig Hill Rugby Club in times ranging from approximately seven hours to nine hours, including much needed rest stops at The Aubrey Arms & The Old Post in St Nicholas, The Duke of Wellington in Cowbridge and Heronston Hotel in Bridgend. At the finish line walkers were presented with medals and enjoyed the after party including a raffle, food and live music from Rebecca Hurn and Reload.