John Davies
Track
Won a dramatic Commonwealth Games silver in the steeplechase at Christchurch 1974 after being reinstated on film review. Broke the British record with 8:22.48 and held the Welsh steeplechase record for nine years.
Biography
John Davies, born in Llwynypia, was one of Wales’ leading steeplechase runners of the 1970s, competing primarily for Thames Valley Harriers. He achieved his most celebrated result at the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, winning silver in the steeplechase.
The final was dramatic: Davies was initially disqualified following a collision with Kenyan competitor Evans Mogaka on the final lap, but was reinstated after officials reviewed film footage of the incident. He broke the British record with 8:22.48 at the 1974 AAA Championships and held the Welsh steeplechase record for nine years.
He represented Wales through 12 Welsh international vests and competed at the 1978 Edmonton Commonwealth Games before injuries curtailed his career.