Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court resident takes the lead on a 1,200 mile virtual Bikeathon

John Welland, an 88 year old resident at Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court, in Porthcawl, joined the care home’s initiative which had two goals: to encourage both residents and staff to keep active using the Home’s indoor exercise bike, and to raise funds to purchase an electric side-by-side trike for residents. As a result, John spearheaded the 1,200 mile challenge and surpassed it by 500 miles on the Home’s bike. He says:

“Cycling has kept me fit for years! I’ve enjoyed the challenge!”

John has been a cycling enthusiast all his life, completing the London to Brighton bike race three times for charity in his 50s and 60s. He needed full-time nursing care when he came to live at Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court, but his health has improved significantly over the years.

His commitment to this Bikeathon has allowed the Home to achieve their goal: to help raise funds to buy the side-by-side trike, which residents will now enjoy in the garden. The Home’s Activities Coordinators, Mandy Kilpatrick-Evans and Sheila Thomas, said:

“Well done, John, for your hard work and commitment! Our staff were also jumping on the bike whenever they could, but it’s fair to say that John was way ahead of them! Having the fundraising target has proven to be a great incentive for everyone to go that extra mile!”

John felt so motivated afterwards that he was eager to take on another challenge. The Activities Coordinators have since set him a new target: to cycle the coastal path around Wales on the Home’s exercise bike. John is now ready to conquer 870 miles and everyone at Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court is rooting for him!