Rugby captain Sam Warburton to join cyclists for annual charity jaunt

Wales and Lions legend Sam Warburton will be joining nearly 200 cyclists on Friday for a hugely popular charity bike ride.

The Blues stalwart, along with departing captain Andries Pretorius, will be taking part in the second annual Wickets and Wheels event in aid of 2 Wish Upon A Star.

The charity was set up by Rhian Burke, of the Chestnuts, Miskin, who lost her one-year-old son George after he suffered a sudden fit at the family home.

Then, the unthinkable happened just five days later when Rhian’s husband Paul, who was later diagnosed with post-traumatic stress, fell to his death after being unable to cope with the devastating loss.

The charity aims to ensure every AE department in South Wales has suitable bereavement suites and services for heartbroken relatives.

Rhian Burke, Paul Burke and baby George

 

Last year, Miskin villagers turned out in force to see off the cyclists, who pedalled from St David’s Church to Queens College, Taunton, over two days.

It will finish with a charity cricket match and family fun day in the Somerset town.

Rhian said: “Coming to terms with this loss has been very tough emotionally both for myself and for our two young children.

“However, since February 2012, I have gained strength from the idea of raising money and with the help of three special people, I established a very special charity.

“Losing two such perfect people hurts and affects everyone who was lucky enough to have known them.

“It is therefore important that we always remember them and smile.

“The memory of Paul and George needs to live on.

“They were taken by the angels far too early and it is important that we remember their smiles, laughter and love.”

Charity 2 Wish Upon A Star has grown substantially since it was founded and now has an office in Talbot Green.           

 

A new relatives room and bereavement suite was opened at the new Accident and Emergency Department at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, in February.

And two monthly bereavement groups have already been established.

Rhian added: “Last year, as well as raising £62,500, friendships were made and fears overcome to make it one of the best experiences I have ever had.”

Cyclists plan to leave Miskin at 9am on Friday and travel 60 miles to Portishead, Bristol.

They will then cycle the remaining distance to Queens College, Taunton, on Saturday from 8am.

Sam Warburton and Andries Pretorius will ride the first 20 miles of the challenge.

For more details, visit www.2wishuponastar.org

Article source: http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/rugby-springboks-continue-wales-domination-cardiff-win-200500548--spt.html

Rugby captain Sam Warburton to join cyclists for annual charity jaunt