108 cyclists departed from Bloomfield Community Centre, Narberth. There were three circuits for entrants with a choice of 10 miles, 27 miles or 50 miles for the keen enthusiasts.
Race organiser Rotarian David Haward said at the registration desk, which opened at 9am, “I am absolutely delighted with the turnout this year. In 2015 we only had 8 entrants so the event has now grown beyond my expectations and we will definitely repeat it again next year”.
The 10 mile circuit, which suited families and children, did a lap around Narberth Town Centre before travelling West through Robeston Wathen and then down to Canaston Bridge and then turning south to head for the finish at picturesque Cresswell Quay.
The hardy souls who opted for the 50 mile circuit headed North through Maenclochog, Crymych and Blaenffos before heading over the north face of the Preseli mountain after which they turned south to head for the finish at The Cresselly Arms on the quayside.
The 27 mile circuit reached Maenclochog before turning south to head for the finish line. Trustee John Daniels of Prostate Cymru said at the finish line, “ The efforts of all participants and the organisers is truly appreciated and I am so glad the weather was kind to the event. Our committee in Pembrokeshire needs to raise funds to fight this disease which affects on average 1 in 8 men in Wales which is certainly higher than in England with 550 men dying from the disease each year.
Mary Adams, The President of The Rotary Club of Narberth & Whitland, followed the competitors around various parts of the course and captured some superb action shots which she will post on social media and the club’s website. She admired the stamina of the riders who ventured over the Preseli’s and commented, “ We have raised over £1,000 for a very deserving charity, the object of which is to bring men’s awareness to the early signs of Prostate Cancer. The charity seeks to raise funds for state of the art treatment in Wales. We could not have done this without the co-operation of the entrants; the Rotary Club members and three Pembrokeshire Blood Bikes volunteers who volunteered to ride the course on their motorbikes to ensure the safety of the cyclists on route. Thanks are also due to Landlords John and Colin Evans who allowed us to terminate the run at The Cresselly Arms. The sumptuous buffet that they provided has been enjoyed by competitors and supporters”.