BBC Radio 2 presenter Owain Wyn Evans has begun a 400-mile charity bike ride across Northern Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales to raise money for Children in Need. The Ammanford-born presenter is due to finish the ride on Friday in Cardiff.
The Four-Nation Challenge
This is the longest and the first of the challenges by Radio 2 presenters to cover all four nations. Owain has admitted to finding the training tough both physically and mentally.
The route is being published daily, and a tracker is now live on the Children in Need website.
Route Details and Send-Off
Actor Luke Evans revealed the route on BBC Radio 2, describing the start in Glasgow and the journey through Scotland's Central Lowlands, past Thornliebank and Newton Mearns, through Windy-Yett, and along the west coast towards Cairnryan to catch a ferry to Northern Ireland.
Owain has named his bike Shania Chain after a suggestion from one of his listeners. Other suggestions included Áine Bike, Britney Gears, and Kylie Spinogue.
Shania Twain sent a message of good luck, saying: "Hi Owain, Shania Twain here! You're about to take on an incredible challenge for BBC Children in Need, cycling 400 miles through all four nations. As you set off in Glasgow, I just want to say: 'Let's go, Owain!' We'll be cheering you on all the way. Good luck!"
Support and Preparation
Drummers from Glasgow's Samba Ya Bamba Band gave Owain a send-off, celebrating his passion for drumming and his BBC Children in Need Drumathon challenge in 2021, which raised more than £3m. Fellow BBC Radio 2 presenter DJ Spoony joined Owain at the start line in Glasgow.
Owain has admitted feeling nervous ahead of the ride and told WalesOnline that he isn't a natural athlete and has had to train every day since July. Asked how people can support him as he passes, he said he hopes to see plenty of smiling faces.
