Introducing Wyn Trefor Jones - Cyclist
Who are you?
Wyn Trefor Jones, 54 years young and originally from Porthmadog, in North Wales and currently living in Pwllheli with my wife Indeg. I am the father to six children, (yes 6!)- Bethan, Elen, Alys, Madog, Ithel, and Hunydd.
What is your background?
I am a senior partner at Pritchard Jones Lane LLP solicitors whose office is in Caernarfon. I have a rugby background, in that I played and captained Caernarfon Rugby Club after playing for Y Geltaidd, at Aberystwyth with my good friend Robert Boyns and my brother Iwan, who is also part of this team. I am a very enthusiastic Wales rugby supporter and I currently coach under 8’s rugby at the Pwllheli Rugby Club, as my youngest sons Madog and Ithel are very keen rugby players.
Why did you want to get involved in this challenge?
I have been involved on two previous occasions with this challenge and I enjoyed the experience and meeting inspirational people. Also, I was asked to be a part of this challenge by my good friend Rob Boyns and I felt that I had something to give.
How long have you been cycling?
After I finished playing rugby when I was around 38 years of age, I started running but found that my contemporaries were taking up cycling and so I was persuaded to become a cyclist around 12 years ago. Obviously, I have found it difficult to go on long rides due to family commitments during this time, but I did take part in a tour around Wales to raise funds for a local children's charity called Gafael Llaw (inspired when my son Madog became ill with leukaemia) and which was headed by my brother Iwan.
What do you think will be the most challenging aspect of the trip?
Probably, the lack of sleep - this was a factor in the previous Doddie Rides which I have been a part of. Also, of course, I will have to look after both my brother Iwan and my friend Lawrence, who is one of the support crew as they have not had experience of this type of challenge before. I know that Lawrence will, on occasions, be grumpy, but I will not take that personally! Also, of course, being away from the family for a long period of time and missing putting the children to bed!
How important is it that we keep Doddie's memory alive?
Doddie was obviously a unique and influential character. Everyone knows about Doddie Weir, either as a rugby player or as part of his foundation. He has inspired a significant amount of people, both young and old.
How important is it that we continue to raise funds for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation?
When I became part of the previous challenges, I was unaware that the funding for the research to tackle MND was such an issue. Once proper resources are applied, I have no doubt that there will be a cure and treatment which is much needed to those currently living with MND.
What has been the most inspirational aspect of this challenge so far for you?
The other members of the team, their commitment to the cause and the fact that they give up so much of their time to make such a challenge a success both physically and also financially. In particular, the Wales captain Robert Boyns, whom I have known for over 30 years - it is the commitment of people like him to this cause that will result in much needed funds being raised to fund research and to find a cure.
What, ultimately, do you want to come out of this?
Quite simply, to raise awareness and funds for the foundation and highlight that there needs to be a cure for MND. Also, of course, to highlight the effects of MND on those that are living with the disease - they and their family face enormous challenges. This will inspire us in this challenge.
