Welsh rugby fan rides to tests

Welsh rugby fan Evan Davies, pictured between Kurow and Duntroon, on the way to Dunedin for the...
Welsh rugby fan Evan Davies, pictured between Kurow and Duntroon, on the way to Dunedin for the Wales versus the All Blacks test at Forsyth Barr Stadium tomorrow night. Photo by Sally Brooker.

There are hardcore rugby fans who will fly across the world to see their national team play; and then there are super hardcore fans like Evan Davies.

The 30-year-old Welshman is cycling from Auckland to Dunedin, and has managed to cheer for his home team when they played against the All Blacks in Auckland and Wellington.

During the past week, he has been making his way towards Dunedin for the third and final test tomorrow night.

Mr Davies said his 1100km bicycle journey has also been aimed at raising £1100 for the Welsh Rugby Union Charitable Trust.

The trust was set up in 1972 with a range of education, social and sporting objectives aimed at providing support to rugby players who have been severely injured while playing rugby in Wales.

"They do fantastic work supporting Welsh rugby players (of all levels) who suffer life-changing injuries, helping financially with adaptations to cars, homes and for retraining or education,'' Mr Davies said.

Mr Davies said his great-grandfather was a great rugby player who was "one of the probables'' to be put through to the Welsh national rugby team.

Unfortunately, he suffered a serious injury and was no longer able to play.

"It's actually ironic. He broke his neck, and obviously there wasn't anyone around like the Welsh Rugby Union Charitable Trust at that point.''

Mr Davies said while his cycling trip had proved to be challenging at times, "overall, it's been really enjoyable''.

"It's an awesome way to see the country. Everywhere, there is just awesome, awesome scenery.

"It's like nothing I've ever seen before.''

john.lewis@odt.co.nz

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