Introducing Our Cameraman, who also cycles - Carwyn Dafydd

Who are you (name, age, where you come from)

Carwyn Dafydd, 34, from Y Felinheli in North West Wales (Support - Cameraman)

What is your background?

I'm a sports enthusiast and over the years have dabbled in swimming, tennis, badminton, running, hiking, squash, rugby, skiing and skateboarding! I currently play football for CPD Y Felinheli in the Ardal North West league (3rd tier in Wales), have 3 duathlons planned for the summer and have just returned from a snowboarding holiday. I work as Head of Technical for our staff owned TV production company, Cwmni Da, in Caernarfon.

Why did you want to get involved in this challenge?

I was very lucky to be offered the chance to take part in this awesome event by Cwmni Da's MD, Llion Iwan (who had been speaking to Wyn and Rob Boyns about it) and I jumped at the chance. The plan is to be riding with one of the pods every day and to document the journey on camera.

How long have you been cycling?

I've been cycling seriously since 2019 and really got the bug during the 2020/21 lockdowns as it was one thing you could still do.

What do you think will be the most challenging aspect of the trip?

Getting the camera out after doing a long stint on the bike when I will just want to put my feet up. Probably the weather too!

How important is it that we keep Doddie's memory alive?

Very important to keep Doddie's memory alive because of his contribution to rugby and more importantly his work off the field in raising awareness of MND. It is important to keep him in mind when doing these kinds of events as a reminder of why we are doing it and to use it as motivation to keep going. 

How important is it that we continue to raise funds for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation?

MND is a disease that most people have some knowledge of and directly or indirectly affects many of us, so it is of utmost importance to raise funds to help research into how to treat and combat this heartbreaking disease.

What has been the most inspirational aspect of this challenge so far for you?

It is very inspiring how committed and hardworking people are in organising this event and with charity work in general. I hope I will be able to capture some of this work and commitment on camera. 

What, ultimately, do you want to come out of this?

Firstly, I hope we can achieve and surpass the money raising target. Secondly, I would like to be able to produce a documentary that I am proud of and will be something decent for everyone to look back on. Lastly, I want it to be a lasting experience for everyone involved.