Introducing Iwan Trevor Jones - Cyclist
Who are you ( name, age, where you come from)
Iwan Trefor Jones. 56 years old. Originally from Porthmadog, North Wales. Now living in Felinheli with my wife (Catrin). Father to 5 children – Sion (24yrs old), Gethin (22yrs old), Noah (8yrs old), Osian (5yrs old) and Nel (2yrs old).
What is your background?
I am CEO of a large housing association in Wales (called “Adra”). I am also Chairman of Gafael Llaw – a charity that raises money to support children in North Wales with cancer. My background is not in rugby – but in football!! I played for a number of teams, including Aberystwyth Uni, Cardiff Uni, Porthmadog, Llanberis, Deiniolen and Bethel! I hope members of the team will not give me too much stick for being a footballer – and forgive me for my lack of background and enthusiasm for rugby!
Why did you want to get involved in this challenge?
Not much choice to be honest. Rob Boyns is very persuasive!!
How long have you been cycling?
After I finished playing football – about 12 years ago. Nothing too serious – just enjoying going for a ride with friends and stopping at different cafes! Work and family commitments have limited my time on the bike in recent years, but hopefully, I will get back into it from now on. Cycled around all the Children’s Hospitals in Wales in 2014 (Tour de Cymru) to raise money for Gafael Llaw charity – and raised over £80k.
What do you think will be the most challenging aspect of the trip?
Looking after Wyn – my brother – and Rob, and make sure that they behave themselves and keep out of trouble!! On a serious note, my main challenge will be to keep up with everybody on the bike and not be left way behind! Hopefully Lorenzo and the support crew will keep an eye out for me! Being away from the family for such a long period will also be hard, and I will miss the laughter and hugs of my young children.
How important is it that we keep Doddie's memory alive?
Hugely important. He was a very influential person, very positive, brave and resilient. It's important that the young generation coming through are aware of his attributes and legacy.
How important is it that we continue to raise funds for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation?
We must find a cure for MND, and by raising funds, much needed research can be funded and applied. Through this research, we can accelerate the development of new treatment and give hope to those currently living with MND.
What has been the most inspirational aspect of this challenge so far for you?
ust coming to know members of the team through virtual meetings and in awe of their drive, enthusiasm, commitment and dedication for the charity and the cause. They are all very special people. I look forward to forming new friendships and improving my knowledge and understanding of rugby as we head to Rome!!
What, ultimately, do you want to come out of this?
Get to Rome safely and in one piece!!! It's an opportunity to raise funds for the charity, increase awareness about MND and highlight the bravery of those living with the condition – and the challenges they face. They – more than anybody else - are the ones that will inspire us along the way.
