Former Welsh international Shane Williams teams up with Man-up UK for the inaugural Tour De Shane cycling event in Pembrokeshire

From 8am in the morning, entrants set off from St Davids RFC on either the 50 or 70 mile route, and delved through various parts of the county before tackling a tough finish that included challenging climbs at both Newgale and Solva.

The event, organised by Man-up UK, raised funds for the Velindre Cancer Centre, a charity that the star attraction on the day, former Welsh and British Lions rugby star Shane Williams, is a patron of.

And Williams and co were fortunate to enjoy perfect weather conditions for the sportive, which organisers had stressed was more about enjoyment than it was about placings.

Indeed, Williams himself held many conversations with fellow cyclists on the way around, although emphasised that very little talking was done on the hill climbs.

“There were some really tough spots but we were fortunate with the weather and it was a great ride,” he told Telegraph Sport.

“You could see the coast for much of the way around and people were smiling which was nice as they went which was nice. It’s an event for people of all abilities and it was nice to meet and speak with other cyclists.”

And the 40-year-old, who will also tackle the London Marathon and Ironman Wales this year, spoke of his admiration for Pembrokeshire.

“On a day like this there is no better place in Wales – and furthermore it has all been for a great cause which I’m close to.

“Overall it has been a huge success and we’ll be back next year.”

Also involved in running the day was Sean Holley, who has been working alongside Man-up UK and added: “We are delighted with the feedback from the cyclists after they finished.

“It’s a sportive but also a tough test. But most of all it’s an event that people can enjoy and also perfect preparation for those maybe doing Ironman Wales later in 2017.

“And when you can have the likes of Shane and Ian (Gough) taking part and mixing with people, it adds to the value of it.”

The first 50 mile cyclist to return was Catherine Marks, who completed the course in 2.59.52, while David Cole finished the longer 70 mile distance in 3.33.18.

And those who took part were full of praise for both the course and running of the day.

“It was really tough at the end especially Newgale,” said Terry Davies, who travelled down from Aberystwyth.

“But the scenery was gorgeous and everything was brilliantly signposted. A great day.”

Johnny Treharne and Mark Whitby meanwhile, from the Milford Tritons, agreed the event was worth doing.

“I’m training for Ironman and the 70 mile route was great preparation. It was challenging but really worthwhile," said Johnny.

Mark added: “The last 20 miles really hurt. But it has been a brilliant event and most importantly, has raised money for charity."

One of the most astonishing efforts of the day went to former Wales second row Gough, who cycled down from Kilgetty early in the morning to complete the 70 mile route, and then cycled back there afterwards, and later joked he got back ‘just before dark’ after his overall journey of around 175 miles.

Man-up UK organisers Fintan Godkin and Carwyn Richards thanked everyone who took part, with some coming from as far away from Lincolnshire and the Midlands to participate.

The pair also thanked all the volunteers and marshals who helped on the day, and Bierspool Cycles in Pembroke Dock, Hayward Hotel Spa, James Holley, 6sixtydewi production, Frank Whittle Photography, PSA Nutrition, Richard Cotton Designs, SW Sport Therapy, and Richard Davies.

The pair also said a special thankyou to Pembrokeshire residents for their patience, support and donations made to Velindre.

“We appreciate at times there can be minor inconveniences caused but it's also a great way to show case the area and promote Pembrokeshire,” said Fintan.

Entries are soon to open for the 2018 Tour De Shane, and for more information, visit www.man-upuk.com/tours/tour-de-shane.