Cyclists enjoyed a successful charity event on the weekend as Narberth and Whitland Rotary held its 5th Annual iL Giro di Pembrokeshire.

Rotarian David Haward a keen cyclist instigated the event five years ago, which at that time was called the Rotary Ride.

David decided last year to change the title of the event to iL Giro di Pembrokeshire so the cycle ride was included amongst the premier Cycle Events within the Pembrokeshire Cycling Event calendar.

It is usually two weeks before Ironman Wales which gives local cyclists a chance to do their last bit of training over a challenging Pembrokeshire terrain.

This year the event was a real challenge because of Covid-19 regulations within Wales.

President Chris Williams contacted the Welsh Government to seek approval for the event to take place.

Organisers were told that they were allowed two groups of 30 cyclists at the allocated two time slots of 10 am and 11 am.

The start venue and finish was at Narberth Rugby Club with two routes this year, 27 and 50 miles.

A huge thank you goes to Sheena Conbeer and Rotarian Ken Morgan who made this happen.

The rugby club outside with the marquee and pitch was a perfect way to socially distance and accommodate the signing on and off process as well as making it possible for cyclists to have food and drink afterwards.

Because of the hour difference between events there was never more than 30 people at the rugby club.

All participants were temperature tested and with online registration and payment we limited the paperwork at the signing on desk.

A young Spanish cyclist who works at the Druidstone Hotel was given a lift to the event from Haverfordwest by Rotarian Elaine Bradbury who was in charge of the breakdown van and he sent a thank you note after completing the 50 mile route: “You cant imagine how much I appreciate the opportunity of being there. The organisation was amazing, everything well signed, amazing pictures, and even better initiative.”

Another participant Captain James John said: “The 50 mile route proved to be as testing as anything I have done in the Alps! Bwlch Mountain with a headwind was extra special!”

President Chris was pleased to announce that £900 was raised for Prostate Cymru and Rotary Local Charities.

“We are delighted that the event went ahead in what is a difficult time for fundraising for Charities all over Wales,” he said.

“We have supported Prostate Cymru at this event for a few years and we are delighted that everyone had a great day out whilst supporting a worthwhile cause.”