“Wales in a Week” is an epic cycling challenge that will see us (Paul Rees and Adrian Small) ride over 600 miles around Wales in just 7 days to raise funds and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association South West Wales branch, to help those affected by this terribly cruel disease, for which there is no cure.  

As seasoned cyclists and members of Bynea Cycling Club we are hoping to complete this tough challenge within a week, setting off from Llanelli on Saturday 1 June riding through Newton, Rhyl, Barmouth, Cardigan and Tenby before returning back to Llanelli on Friday 7 June.

As well as raising much needed funds for MND Association South West Wales branch, we are hoping to raise awareness of just how devastating MND is and gain support from cycling communities across Wales after our “great mate” and fellow cyclist Martin Harsant was sadly diagnosed with MND two years ago.

Cycling has always been a huge part of Martin’s life since he first joined his local cycling club, Port Talbot Wheelers in 1975 when he was just 13. After marrying Llanelli born Linda in 1982 and moving to Loughor Martin joined Bynea Cycling Club where he’s been a valued member ever since.

In December 2016, whilst training to take on one of the World’s toughest bike rides - the gruelling “Marmotte sportive” ride in France (for a second time) Martin noticed something was wrong and felt like he didn’t have the same power in his legs as he did before - following tests, he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in February 2017 aged just 55. Martin continued to cycle (with the aid of an electric bike) for as long as he could until unfortunately, the progressive nature of the disease meant Martin had to retire his bike. In dedication to Martin and his ability to remain strong, positive and good humored throughout his biggest challenge, we will complete “Wales in a Week” both riding Martin’s bikes!

As cyclists we have climbed some of the biggest mountains in France with Martin (who is most at home on the mountains) and other fellow club members affectionately known as the “great mates” - so there seemed no better way to raise money than a cycling challenge closer to home - taking in some of Wales’ great mountains!

The MND Association South West Wales branch (who are reliant on donations) have been a great source of support both financially and emotionally to Martin and Linda. With the support of their family and friends, we hope to raise as much money as possible to help others affected by MND and support the funding of care, campaigning and research to achieve a world free from MND. 

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