Two ops can't stop Jiffy saddling up again for charity

JONATHAN “Jiffy” Davies is one of Wales’ greatest-ever rugby players, but his biggest achievement in life has been his incredible commitment to raising money for Velindre Cancer Charity.

- STEFFAN THOMAS

It is a cause very close to the Trimsaran-born star’s heart after his father, Len, and his first wife, Karen, passed away from cancer.

It was the contrasting nature of their treatment and his desire to help others which drove the dual-code international to get involved with Velindre.

Davies first got involved with Velindre Cancer Charity in 2007 and became a patron before getting promoted to president in 2009.

The 62-year-old has overseen, coordinated and participated in numerous fundraising events over the years, raising more than £50m for Velindre Cancer Charity.

Yesterday, Davies took part in his annual 50-mile bike ride, which started at the Cardiff City Stadium and finished outside Rok restaurant at Swansea's Bracelet Bay.

But this year was a tougher challenge than ever before after a difficult year for the legend following two major surgeries.

A full knee replacement last September was followed by a major back operation which saw him have a metal cage and four screws inserted in his back and left him feeling like he's been “run over by a bus”.

Pulling out of this event was never an option, though.