Meet John Jones, the unstoppable 79-year-old who ran Cardiff’s first-ever marathon back in 1981 and is still pounding the pavements today! Fast forward more than 40 years, and this dedicated runner from Ceredigion is gearing up for his fifth Cardiff Half Marathon. 🏃♂️
John’s journey into running began on a whim when he was intrigued by the Olympic marathon. Without the luxury of modern-day energy gels, fancy training schedules, or even a wide selection of running shoes (just one shop in Cardiff back then!), he dove right into the world of marathons. Remembering the early days, John recalls thinking, “Jeez, that’s a long way back,” yet he persevered, inspired by his father, who used to run after long days in the mines.
Today, John cherishes the bustling atmosphere at races more than ever. “The music, the cheering crowds – it’s such a lively spectacle,” he shares, particularly fond of the last stretch on Corbett Road, where the roars of supporters push him forward.
Despite the challenges, like the rough road at Roath Park lake, John’s spirit remains unbreakable. This year, he’s not just running for himself but for a cause close to his heart. Having previously supported the Alzheimer’s Society, he’s now fundraising for the NSPCC, hoping to cross the £1,000 mark.
John’s ultimate goal? To finish injury-free and simply enjoy the run. “It’s not about winning; it’s about the joy of running,” he says. With a lifetime of races behind him and the horizon of his 80th birthday ahead, John’s enthusiasm is infectious.
As the Cardiff Half Marathon unfolds this weekend, watch out for John Jones, the man who proves that age is just a number when it comes to passion and perseverance. 🌟
#CardiffMarathon #RunningLegend #Inspiration #NeverTooLate #NSPCC