One local mountain biker, Lee Williams, is training to take on a tough challenge to raise money in memory of his friend, SHELFY, who passed away in May 2023.
It was 25 years ago, that Lee started working with Kev, who became known as SHELFY. Lee explained, “I was forced to retire from football and kickboxing through injuries. I had started worrying about my weight and well-being, so SHELFY said ‘come mountain biking with me!’ He gave me his spare bike and off to Llandegla we went, and I was hooked. We would ride all over the place Betws-Y-Coed, Builth Wells, Coed-y-Brenin and the Lake District. I eventually showed him local rides to Oswestry and here we hooked up with more local riders and he fast became a very popular chap and made some more lifelong friends.
“Kev and I were laid off from work, so we both went self-employed. We continued to work together for a few years when he decided he would rather go back to working for someone. Kev went to Wrexham university as a maintenance engineer and he stayed there. He loved it at the university, with his fantastic new crew. And of course, he was a very popular member of the team. He loved nothing more than going for a pint with my brother and the gang, bless him.”
Sadly, late on in 2022, friends received the devastating news of SHELFY having cancer. All felt it was a huge blow to such a lovely man, and he lost his brave battle with the horrible disease in May this year, at the age of 52.
As a fitting tribute in his honour, Lee has very special permission, to hold a 24hr Mountain Bike Challenge around OnePlanet Adventure in Llandegla, on the 1st anniversary of his passing: May 16-17th 2024. Lee has the backing and blessing of Kev’s family, the Hanmer’s of Wem, who will be present on the day to show their support. Lee is hoping they may even do a lap with him.
“All proceeds go to Severn Hospice and some to Macmillan, who both took wonderful care of our dear friend in his battle. I’m now in training for this challenge and I’ve a very special team to help me in my journey. I need all the help I can get! Michelle Bowen sports therapist based in Wrexham, will be on hand for any issues that may arise and will keep me in shape whilst I’m in training. Local MTB legend, Dave Griffiths of Dave Griffiths cycle coach, is very kindly helping me with a program to prepare me for this challenge. Strength and conditioning, and cycling training, and hopefully Dave will do a few laps with us,” Lee explained.
“Another local MTB legend, James Martin of Llansantffraid, will be riding with me on the day. Lewis of LJ-Tech Services has really helped me by setting up all the social media and Just Giving page. Alan Lewis of Adrenaline Sports is also being a great support and has vast experience with this sort of challenge. I’m in very good hands! My sister Lisa Humphrey’s is providing medical cover on the day and my wife Mandy is helping me with all the organising and keeping me motivated.
I have to say a big thank you to Badger of OnePlanet for helping me out with all this and allowing me to do this challenge. If you are able to help me support Severn Hospice and Macmillan in any way, I would be so grateful.”
Lee is also welcoming fellow mountain bikers to join him during his challenge. The team will be accepting cash donations on the day at the track.
To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/shelfyshonour24 or go to the Facebook page @Shelfy’s Honour.
