Llanrwst TV star in charity cycling challenge

Apr 14 2011 by Samantha Castle, North Wales Weekly News

A TELEVISION star from Llanrwst is gearing up to help a children’s cancer charity.

Llanrwst born Torchwood actor Kai Owen is supporting this year’s 5 Nations Cycle by taking part in the Welsh leg of the ride in August.

Registration is now open for the six-day ride, organised by CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, which will take cyclists on a 600-mile journey through Wales, England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Kai, 35, raises money for CLIC because it helped his cousin Michaela Lemalle 24, also of Llanrwst, who has suffered several brain tumours.

He said: “I’ve got to make sure I stay fit to keep on top of my game, as my job can often be physically demanding. That’s why I’m delighted to be taking part in the 5 Nations Cycle, and exploring beautiful Welsh scenery by bike.

“The 5 Nations Cycle is a fantastic way to get out into the open air, put your cycling skills to the test, and explore some of the finest cycle paths the UK and Republic of Ireland have to offer.

“I’m encouraging cyclists to sign up, take on the challenge and raise money to help CLIC Sargent.”

Challengers set off on the road cycle from the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Sunday, August 14 and head north, touring the west coast of England, before stopping off at the 300-mile mark to explore the Lake District.

Riders then continue north to Galloway Forest, Scotland, hitting 430 miles, and head west to Belfast by ferry and touring down the coastal paths of Ireland with a celebratory finish in Dublin.

Riders pay a registration fee of £99 and raise a minimum of £1,800 in sponsorship.

Participants will be given a resource pack to help with fundraising and a designated CLIC Sargent contact to support them in reaching their fundraising target. The sponsorship fee includes ferry travel, tented and hotel accommodation, breakfast and evening meals, tour leader, full medical support and route planning/ map costs.

Kai, who plays Rhys Williams in the popular sci-fi Doctor Who spin-off, is currently filming in Wales and the USA for Torchwood’s fourth series, due to premiere on BBC1 this summer.

For more information or to register for the 5 Nations Cycle visit www.5nationscycle.com