An overheard chat in Goode’s Gym’s toilets between two men in their 70s on Thursday 19 December 2024 summed up why the event taking place in the room next door was so important.
It went like this: “I loved playing in the same team as you.”
“Likewise.”
The man who said “likewise” tapped his mate on the shoulder as he walked away and I took his place at the urinal. The former teammates had just eaten breakfast together with around 30 other men who had, at one time or another over the last 40-odd years played with or against each other in clubs across Gwent.
The walk is a chance to enjoy some exercise with a chat and (lots of) laughs. I got the feeling the focus is more on talking and joking rather than getting lots of steps in. Anyone is welcome. I met someone today whose wife spotted the story I did on last year’s festive get-together and encouraged him to join.
Following the food, I sat down with Jim McCreedy, the former Newbridge and Wales A international who went on to have management roles with the Dragons and Newport RFC. He spoke about the reason the walk is still going strong five years after it started- and why rugby players remain friends for life.
Watch the video with Jim McCreedy
Check out a full gallery of photos from the breakfast shared on the Cwmbran Life Facebook page.