🎉🏃♂️ Huge kudos to Welsh marathon legend Steve Jones, who now has his very own giant steel statue in Ebbw Vale! This striking tribute captures Jones crossing the finish line of the 1984 Chicago Marathon, where he set a world record time. Talk about a moment frozen in steel!
At the unveiling, Steve couldn’t resist a playful jab at his old competitors, inviting them to “admire” his statue from the back, just like on race days. Among the cheering crowd were fellow athletes and his former rivals, including some Olympians who joined to celebrate this momentous occasion.
Jones’s impressive running career began at just 16 and took him from the streets of Ebbw Vale to the global stage. He not only broke world marathon and half-marathon records but also represented Wales in countless international events. His 1984 time remained a British record for an unbelievable 33 years!
“This statue is a massive honour for me,” expressed Jones. He spoke of his deep connection to Ebbw Vale, a town that’s now given him a monumental tribute right at the entrance of its leisure centre. The project, seven years in the making, faced delays due to the pandemic but finally came through thanks to efforts from local councils, clubs, and generous donations.
Tim Hutchings, a former teammate, praised Jones’s tough-as-nails grit and said, “Now he is literally made of steel.” The heartfelt event was made extra special with the Welsh national anthem echoing through the air, performed by the Beaufort Male Voice Choir.
From cadet days in the Air Training Corps to the pinnacle of marathons, Jones’s journey is legendary. His story is a powerful reminder that with determination and passion, greatness is within reach. This statue isn’t just a piece of art—it’s a beacon of inspiration for future generations and a proud symbol of our local hero right here in Ebbw Vale! 🏅👏
#SteveJones #EbbwValeLegend #MarathonKing #InspirationInSteel