Time to get outside and enjoy the ride

Cycling has always been incredibly popular with members because of the chance to get outdoors and challenge yourself in the company of like-minded people. who else fancies a bit of this? 

The effort from pedaling the long and winding roads eased into the background as Blesma cyclists enjoyed a pub meal to celebrate their achievements. The humor and banter soon overcame tired, aching muscles during the ‘mini adventure’ in North Wales, which saw eight riders set off on four days of cycling through stunning scenery. 

Organized by Blesma member and keen cyclist Mitch Singleton, the trip provided the team with a unique opportunity to ride together and take in the sights along hand-picked routes around the region. With backdrops of outstanding natural beauty, including Anglesey and Puffin Island, the Great Orme above Llandudno, and Penrhyn and Caernarfon Castles, the week was an assault on the senses as well as the muscles. “I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it was a great way to meet up with Blesma friends and get to know new ones,” says Martin Kettrick, who attended with his wife, Christine. “The rides were of varying lengths—between 15 and 30 miles—across good terrain and roads.” 

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“We had some fair climbs, which were challenging, but that was good because it brought out the team spirit, with everyone helping and encouraging each other. Teamwork is a major part of what these rides are all about, and it was great to be a part of that. 

“We had a fantastic support team: an ex-Royal Marine and a couple of former policemen who were really good lads and gave up their free time to help—they couldn’t do enough for us,” adds Martin, 67, from Staffordshire, who was severely injured in a climbing accident while in the Royal Marines. “I am a paraplegic and use a special hand-bike, and the rides were good for me, so I would recommend it to others. My bike, which is electric, has been a lifeline for me. I can still get out, go cycling, and enjoy the ride. I still have to pedal and work hard, but as I get older, the electric bike helps and means I can still do things like this rather than miss out. 

“It has certainly prolonged my cycling life and has meant I could be with the group and enjoy a really rewarding time out in the fresh air.” 

Three Epic Routes 

The team assembled on a Sunday at the Disabled Riding Centre in Llanfynydd, Flintshire, North Wales—a purpose-built horse riding centre for those with a disability, which was to be their base for the week. The first day took them from Hoylake to Chester along the Wirral Way onto the Millennium Greenway, while the second day featured the breathtaking Ystwyth Trail between Tregaron and Aberystwyth. With a rest day built into the program, the final cycling day followed the North Wales Coastal Route from Llanfairfechan to Caernarfon Castle. 

The team enjoyed incredible hospitality and evening meals at both the Dinorben Arms in Bodfari and the Cross Keys at Llanfynydd after their endeavors, but a highlight was fish and chips on the seafront at Aberystwyth after a long, hard day of cycling along the Ystwyth Trail in Mid Wales. 

“It was a tough week to organize, with a lot of logistical glitches, but we got there and had a good time,” says Mitch Singleton, a former Royal Marines Commando. “It was billed as a mini adventure and a chance to get away, and the riders certainly had the opportunity to go to new places and enjoy the stunning Welsh countryside. There were some spectacular views and places of interest along the routes.” 

“The great thing about it was that it brought people together. David Grant, at 32, was the youngest member there, with Craig Howorth the next ‘young man’ at 58, while our oldest cyclist was 67. It was great to watch these ‘old guys,’ myself included, turn into young men again. Listening to the banter and chirping between the group felt like we were 16 again, just joining the services on our first adventure. 

You are cycling with a group of like-minded people, all working to the same end and helping each other along the way

“When you join any military service, you become part of a group. That gives you many obstacles throughout your career, but most importantly, it also brings many moments to treasure. Alongside this are the benefits to your physical and mental health. Here, you are cycling with a group of like-minded people, all working towards the same end: completing the route and helping each other along the way.” 

Something for Everyone 

Mitch, who lives in North Wales, is considering other cycling events for 2025 that offer opportunities for all types of riders, from beginners to those who are more experienced, as well as trips that might focus on sit-up bikes, hand-cycles, or recumbents, or accommodate wheelchairs. 

I still have to work hard, but as I get older the electric bike means i can still do things like this rather than miss out

“There was some learning from this trip for me as an organizer, which we can get right for future events, and I strongly believe they will provide a great experience for Blesma members,” he adds. “We can change routes and venues, tweak things, and arrange events in different locations throughout the country. 

“It is a fantastic opportunity to meet and mix with friends new and old who have similar backgrounds and experiences. It is a real chance to get out and enjoy the countryside with some fantastic views, fully supported by a great team at HQ and the volunteers, who are so important. We couldn’t have put this event on without volunteers like Russ Humphreys. They are a special part of Blesma and really put themselves out to ensure members get the best from any activity. 

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Giving Up Their Time 

Volunteers like former Royal Marine and firefighter Russ Humphreys played an integral role in the North Wales bike ride. “It was a great week despite one or two teething problems and the odd logistical challenge,” says the 65-year-old from Shrewsbury, who is a Blesma volunteer in the North West and regularly helps out with a number of activities. 

“Mitch asked if I would like to help out, and I jumped at the chance. I’ve been volunteering full-time for Blesma for about three years and help out with activities such as archery, clay pigeon shooting, and zip wire. 

“During the week, it was my role to load the bikes every morning and transport them to the daily start points, all prepped and ready to go for the members to start their day. I’d meet them along the route for refreshment stops before loading up at the end of the ride and driving the bikes back to the accommodation. 

“There is so much organization that goes on behind the scenes to put on an event like this, and Mitch did a great job. I think we’ve all learned a lot from it, and that experience will help make future events even better. 

“The riders had a good week, and many of them are looking forward to future events. Hopefully, experiences like this will attract other members. There is definitely a lot of enthusiasm for more cycling events around the country.” 

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