Leigh Halfpenny backs epic cycle challenge for Tŷ Hafan

Tŷ Hafan, Wales’ leading children’s charity and hospice, is gearing up for a brand-new event taking place on Sunday, 29 September in the Brecon Beacons National Park — ‘Tread & Trail’.

The bike and hike event will take participants on either a 15 or 30 mile cycle in the national park, broken up by a hike up and down the famous Welsh peak, Pen-y-Fan, before cycling a final five miles to the finish line.

The children’s charity is encouraging novice and experienced cyclists to take part in the dual-discipline challenge and has two routes available to choose from; the ‘Ultimate’ (15 mile cycle) or the ‘Extreme’ (30 mile cycle) depending on the ability and level of challenge desired.

Leigh Halfpenny, Tŷ Hafan’s ambassador, helped launch the challenge last month at the charity’s annual fun day; the one the day of the year when the hospice opens its doors to the public.

The challenging course will allow partakers to absorb some of Wales’ most picturesque locations, including the stunning panoramic views at the Pen-y-Fan peak along the Cwm Gwdi route.

Tŷ Hafan will also supply hot meals at the bottom of Pen-y-Fan for participants to refuel before completing the final, five-mile leg of the challenge.

Tŷ Hafan’s Head of Events, Sali Thomas, said:

“We’re very excited to bring an event like this one to Wales. ‘Tread & Trail’ is the first bike and hike event to launch in the country that accommodates advanced cyclists looking for more of a ‘hard-core’ challenge, while also encouraging beginner cyclists as young as 14 years old to take part.

“By incorporating the nation’s favourite hiking destination, we’re hoping to encourage more people than ever to partake in the challenge. And while we do encourage participants to do a little training prior to the event, if you’ve got a bike and some walking boots then there’s no reason why you couldn’t give it a go!

“We need your strength and determination to help make a short life a full life at Tŷ Hafan, and to raise as much money as possible to continue providing the best possible care and support for children and their families at the hospice.”

If you’re interested in registering for the event, you can sign up online today by visiting www.tyhafan.org/tread-trail. Registration costs £15 per person with a £75 sponsorship ask.