Firstly I am a member of a team from Cardiff named 'Tour De Farce' (you couldn't write it if you tried), who let it be said were relatively unfit (in the main) and totally unprepared for what we are about to embark on. We primarily work in fields that support children, hence the three charity choices we have made. The training has been hard to say the least without its fair share of thrills and spills and there are only a few weeks to go now. The guys are putting in a phenomenal amount of personal time, expense and effort often at the expense of our families to train and prepare for this event. We all appreciate your support and your continued support for our efforts as the causes are very worthwhile and something we are all passionate about.

A little about me personally and the reason I am doing this. I am an ex-combat soldier in the British Army, both my brothers were serving soldiers, the youngest is still in (although he is in his forties). While serving in Afghanistan he lost a colleague who's wife went on to start this amazing charity I am cycling for:

I work with children and family has to be the most important thing in the world and for some children they will never get to meet those most important to them.

I started this overweight, underfit and with no misconceptions about what I am letting myself in for, but it is my time to make a decision on the direction my life takes, and I decide that direction is FRANCE (only kidding). My cycling buddies are amazing people in thier own right with thier own stories, I am looking forward to it, I hope and pray I do not get lost, as the distance we have to cycle is far far far enough and I have been to Holland and Germany so don't need to go back..!! look for the pointy thing!!, Blackpool here I come..!!

All kidding aside, if you could find it in yourselves to support this very worthwhile cause I am absolutely sure the children will appreciate it just as much as the group for knowing you are thinking about us or laughing , either way we are happy as long as you stick your mitts in your pockets and give give give...!!!

Week 6 - Been training extremely hard guys, my bum really hurts, and I mean really..!!!! Turbo training 3-4 times a week, long ride 1-2 week, start cycling home from work (35 miles) this week as well! so please keep giving / sharing! It is appreciated..!!

Week 12 - The guys have competed in Sportive's (and got lost, the omens arent good, do you need a visa for Switzerland??) up to 100 miles (go Maria). Cycling 2 - 4 times a week a moment. My training has stalled due to a holiday and to be honest its difficult to get back 'on it'. However the support so far will get me back in the saddle. Two weeks until the Wales Velathon, thinking of hiring a road roller to flatten out the Tumble and Caerphilly Mountain somewhat, a flawed plan I fear..!!

Update after the Velathon!!