Ephraim’s North to South Challenge

I’m running from North Wales to South Wales over 4 days in memory of my Dad who passed away from cancer in 2021 - here’s why…

This year, my Dad would have turned 60 and although I’m certain he wouldn’t have wanted any fuss or attention, I’ve decided to mark the occasion by taking on a pretty big challenge - sorry Dad!

Before my dad died, I was given a piece of advice that ultimately sparked the idea for this challenge. I was told to record a voice note of a conversation between me and my dad—nothing specific, just a normal chat, to listen to whenever I’d miss his voice. So, I did. During the conversation, my Dad shared the story of when he was made redundant from his factory job in his hometown of Yr Wyddgrug, North Wales. He then uprooted to Cardiff, where he used his redundancy money to buy a flat with my mum. This was the start of their journey together.

Then came along me and my sister, Cerys - and this journey became a regular thing for our family. We would often visit my Taid (Grandfather), with the car packed to the brim with luggage, my sister Cerys and me squashed in the back. 5 Live Radio would be blasting, while my mum passed my dad a pack of cheese and onion crisps, gripping the door handle as he drove up the A470 like a rally car driver.

To most, it’s just a stretch of road connecting North and South Wales. But for me, it’s full of memories. This time, though, I’ll be doing it on foot! Starting at the house where my dad grew up, I’ll run over 80km a day until I reach my family home in Taffs Well, Cardiff. I’m aiming to complete the challenge in three days, with the support of my two closest friends, Owen and Ben, who will keep me company by driving, running, or cycling alongside me the whole way. Most importantly, they’ll have a cup of tea (or a pint) ready for me at the end of each day!

I will be fundraising for two charities - Tenovus Cancer Care and The Sion Mullane Foundation. Cancer tore through my family and left a lifelong scar - but Tenovus do incredible work to support cancer patients and their families in Wales so I’m proud to be able to support them in some way. I also want to dedicate this challenge to my friend Sin Mullane, who we tragically lost in 2020. Sion took his own life, and in his memory, the Sion Mullane Foundation works to support young people in Wales, helping them raise their aspirations, reach their full potential, and live fulfilling lives that make a positive difference to others.