Two young members of Aberdare Amateur Athletic Club have been selected to join the ‘mystery runner’ at the Nos Galan Races on New Year’s Eve, 2009.
Each year, a famous sporting personality takes part in the races in Mountain Ash, and their identity is not revealed until the night. Young athletes Gareth Baker and Daniel Bodman, both 19, will be this year’s support runners on December 31.
Gareth, pictured above, of Trecynon, has been a member of Aberdare Valley Amateur Athletic Club since the age of 10. He has always had a keen interest in athletics and competed for Aberdare Valley AAC in track and field, road running and cross country competitions.
He has also helped coaches during training sessions and assisted with training schedules and internal fitness activities such as circuits. This year, he passed his Level 1 Athletic Coaching course. He has been selected to enrol on the Level 2 course.
Gareth enjoys playing football and has taken part in Under-14 and Under-16 teams. He currently plays for his employer Tesco’s football team. His other interests include music and keeping fit.
Daniel, pictured below, of Cwmaman, came third in the Adult section of the Nos Galan Races in 2006 and 2007. He was South Wales regional champion in 3000 metres and 1500m steeplechase and Glamorgan Valley school champion in triplejump, 1500m, 400m hurdles and 1500 steeplechase.
This year, he came second in the Welsh Championship over 1500m and became Welsh inter-regional champion over 3000m. He was also Welsh schools runner-up over 2000 steeplechase and third over 400m hurdles.
Daniel, who is Gwent league (cross country) senior team captain, also enjoys taking part in other sports, including football, and going to the cinema.
On the evening of Nos Galan, Gareth and Daniel will join the mystery runner at Llanwonno Church, where there is a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran. The three will run on into Mountain Ash town centre, where the races are held.
Cllr Andrew Morgan of the Nos Galan committee, who organise the popular races, said: “We are delighted that Daniel and Gareth will be joining us on the night. Both young athletes have achieved such a lot and are excellent role models.”
For more information on the Nos Galan Races, go to www.nosgalan.co.uk or call Rhondda Cynon Taf Events team on 01443 425700
