Cwmbran Vale Canal Relay Marathon

Canal Relay Marathon – 26 miles walk !

As a Rotary Club we have been aware of the unprecedented situation the Country is in and in particular the effect on our locality. This year we have provided funds for our local NHS, Food bank, Alzheimer’s Society , Prostate Cancer, St. David’s and sundry other projects. To enable us to continue making a difference we  decided to organise a “ Relay” Marathon along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal to raise funds. This  involved a number of our members walking a section at a time, and passing over to the next team, until 26 miles had been completed.  With an average team age of 70 + and the oldest being in his 80s,  it  is necessary to remember  that this can be considered a geriatric team, in the vein of Dad’s Army and inspired by the magnificent efforts of Captain Tom.
The  marathon was undertaken on  a beautiful sunny morning on Sunday  27 September 2020 by ten Members who were divided into 5 groups with either one,  two or three in each group and walking their allocated distance of between 2 and 11 miles.
 The marathon started at Five Locks Road, Cwmbran  and finished at Upper Wenallt Bridge 141 some 26 miles away.
 Each group completed their allotted stage with the final group having a well earned celebratory toast at journey’s end .
We would thank all those individuals and organisations who lent their support  and the  contributions  gratefully received, which hopefully  will enable us to continue to help our local Community as well as we can in the current climate.

Alan Arnott
 President of the Rotary Club of Cwmbran Vale