Gavin gets active for US trip to raise funds for rugby star’s cancer care
A VALLEYS man will travel to the USA to cycle 600km in a bid to raise money for his best friend and ex-rugby star who is undergoing treatment for cancer.
Gavin Bennett has signed up for the Velindre Hospital challenge in support of his childhood friend, former Wales star Matthew J Watkins, who is under the centre’s care for his cancer treatment.
In September Gavin, along with six friends and a host of participants from across the UK, will cycle 600km from San Francisco to Los Angeles in six days for the challenge.
Between them, they hope to raise £30,000 towards the wider fundraiser for the Cardiff-based charity.
Gavin, 38, who works at Abercynon Leisure Centre, said: “This is the first time I have ever attempted anything like this but am looking forward to getting to America in September with Matthew and the other participants.
“I became aware of Velindre’s work through Matthew, who is under their care, but we all know someone who is affected by cancer and have seen the incredible work the hospital does every single day.”
Speaking last year, Watkins, who played 18 times for Wales, spoke of his ongoing battle with cancer after revealing the disease had spread from his pelvis to his spine.
The former Scarlets and Dragons man said: “I had a bad back for about a year and a half after I retired, so I thought it was all related to the hip.
“From February 2013, I knew something was wrong. At the time they didn’t know if it was cancer or a non-cancerous tumour. I was in limbo for two months really.
“I was a bit frustrated at times because we didn’t really know what was happening. But it was harder for my family than for me.”
Gavin, who manages Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Sport RCT team, added: “It is my job to manage the team that aim to get more people in RCT more active, more often.
“We work across the county borough helping sports clubs and sports people to develop, grow and thrive, while also working in schools and the community to encourage people to be more active.
“So it is fitting I have taken on such a physical challenge.
“The ride is going to be a trial but each kilometre will be worth it to raise muchneeded funds for this amazing cause.”
Last week, Gavin got into the charity spirit by donning his Wear Red for Velindre T-shirt for one of his training sessions on the spin bikes at Abercynon Leisure Centre.