The professional cyclist: Luke Rowe (Team Sky)

Team Sky’s Luke Rowe is one of Wales’ leading riders on the road, competing for the British team alongside compatriot Geraint Thomas. The Cardiff-born 23-year-old grew up in the Welsh Cycling system before making the jump to the professional ranks.

He said: “Both my parents cycled all their lives, and both my grandparents, and it was always something that the whole family had done. I got into it at a young age with Cardiff Ajax and the Maindy Flyers – two local clubs – and took it from there.

“I think cycling is extremely accessible in South Wales, and at all levels not just at the top. It’s got such a good set up now, the clubs are organised and have more members than ever and more kids than ever, so I think on all levels the future is bright for Welsh cycling.

“It’s hard to put a finger on one thing – there are a lot of factors that contribute towards it. I think the success Team Sky have had, and the success of Great Britain at the last couple of Olympic Games have led to a big pick-up, and on top of that we have a lot of good road courses, Newport Velodrome and Maindy Track. It’s hard to pinpoint one thing but certainly all of those contribute to the success we’re having.

“The biggest thing I’ve picked up in Wales is to just enjoy it. I still go out on a lot of club and group rides now and the theme down here is just to enjoy your ride, have some banter and that aspect of riding your bike, not necessarily going full gas, going out and enjoying it – that’s something I’ve stuck to my whole career.

“The step up from the local level to the professional level is absolutely huge. You can’t comprehend it. But a few of us guys have made the jump and there are a few more coming through so we are obviously doing something right!”