24-hour challenge at gym in memory of rugby stalwart
MONEY has been raised towards the fight against pancreatic cancer in memory of a Carmarthen rugby stalwart.
Born and raised in Carmarthen, Anthony Maynard had a keen passion for rugby.
He was a robust flanker who always made his presence felt on the field and played over four decades for Carmarthen Athletic RFC, Kidwelly, London Wasps and Bridgend.
As well as playing, Mr Maynard took an active role in coaching and managing junior and youth rugby for Carmarthen Athletic, Carmarthen Schoolboys and Llanelli Schoolboys.
One of his sons, Scott, who runs SM9 Fitness in the village of Peniel, north of Carmarthen, rallied gym members together for a fundraising challenge in aid of Pancreatic Cancer UK as part of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month’s Take It On event.
Scott said: “Members at the gym took part in a 24-hour challenge to raise money for Pancreatic Cancer UK in memory of my dad, who sadly passed away on June 13, 2020.
“The challenge was to complete a workout that consisted of burpees, assault bike, box jumps and more.
“The repetitions of each movement had significance and represented dad’s date of birth, his date of passing and his age.
“Around 30 to 40 members took part in this challenge, ranging from the ages of 18 to 63.” Scott added: “As a gym we managed to raise a staggering £7,000 for this charity.
“Back in August, my mum Sian also took part in an event set up by Pancreatic Cancer UK. It was called The Big Step Forward and for that challenge we raised £15,593.11. As a family we have raised a total of £22,593.11.”
The Maynard family has also decided to hold a fundraising event every November to coincide with Pancreatic Awareness Month at SM9 Fitness.