On June 19^th we welcome back daring riders to Margam Park for the latest edition of the Dragon Ride, with this year’s event landing on a date significant for many taking part.

With Father’s Day taking place on the same day, we have some incredible Father Son duos who have decided to take on the legendary route together. We have spoken to a couple of them to find out what it means to them to be sharing the experience together on Father’s Day:

Will & Dave

Dave Smith, who has previously completed the Dragon Ride, is introducing his son Will to the Gran Fondo distance (207km).

Will: “I’m really looking forward to the challenge of completing my first Dragon Ride, particularly the chance of getting to ride some tough climbs which is a nice change from the flat new forest where we live! I’m expecting it to be a long and hard ride, so I’ll have my sights set on a post ride beer with my dad afterwards!”

Dave: “It is great for us to share an activity together, and it means we spend time together training throughout the year. I am looking forward to hopefully a much drier ride than when I rode the Dragon Ride a couple of years ago where it rained relentlessly from start to finish!” 

Will is participating in Dragon Ride as part of a larger challenge to take part in a number of events to raise money for prostate cancer.

Jonathan, Tom & Neil

Jonathan and Tom are competing with their dad, Neil, in his first ride as a grandparent. They are also tackling the Grand Fondo distance (207km).

Jonathan: “Our father is always quick to remind us how much quicker he used to be on his bike despite his age and slightly larger frame. However, we are looking forward to undertaking this challenge with him, as these days we are much quicker than him. If he can keep up, we might be able to spend Father’s Day with him! Most importantly though this will be his first official ride as a grandad and his granddaughter Daisy will be cheering him on at the finish line.”

 

Jeremy & Patrick

Jeremy is taking on the Macmillan 100 (98km) distance with his son Patrick, who is only 16 years of age, for his first sportive.

Patrick: “Taking part in Dragon Ride 2022 will be extra special this year as I am undertaking the Macmillan 100 with my son, Patrick, his first organised Sportive.  Having done Velothon Wales a few years ago, I’m really looking forward to returning to the area to take on another iconic ride.” 

“We joined a cycle club at the start of the year (Charlotteville Cycle Club) and have been slowly increasing the distances and elevations over recent weeks.  We’re very lucky that we live close to the Surrey Hills, so there are some great local rides, although I will admit the hills are not quite the same as the Welsh Mountains.  I would love to say that I am teaching my son everything I know, alas at 16, he is already far stronger and quicker than I am!”

The Macmillan 100 distance the ‘short’ distance of the Dragon Ride, still boasts 1348m of climbing, tackling major climbs such as The Bwlch and Rhigos, a feat to be proud of!

“Given it is Father’s Day on the day of the race, I have already shared my expectation that he will be carrying all the water-bottles, snacks, and tools for the day.  I am awaiting a response.”

“The very best of luck to all the riders on the day, enjoy the views and here’s hoping for good weather.”

We would like to join Patrick in wishing the best of luck to all the riders daring to take on the Dragon this Father’s Day!