Blaenau Gwent Council is delighted to announce that a steel statue of record-breaking athlete Steve Jones MBE, OLY, and Freeman of Blaenau Gwent will be officially unveiled by Steve himself in his hometown of Ebbw Vale this September.
The Council is excited and honoured to have worked with its partners and the running community in Blaenau Gwent to celebrate Steve’s incredible athletic career, highlighting his achievements in a way that will inspire children and young people to always strive for the best they can be.
Visiting from his home in America, Steve has expressed his joy at returning to the valleys for this special occasion.
He said:
“It’s always lovely to come home, but this time will be extra special. It is almost surreal that this is happening, and the people of Blaenau Gwent are doing this for me. I already know it will be an incredible day.”
Members of the public are warmly invited to join the celebration of this momentous event and to see a true legend in the flesh.
Event details:
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Date: Friday, 12th September 2025
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Time: 1pm
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Location: Outside Ebbw Vale Sports Centre, Lime Avenue, NP23 6GL
The event will bring together Steve’s proud family and friends, local athletes, notable figures from the world of running, children and young people, Royal Air Force representatives and local dignitaries. A rousing performance will also be given by the traditional Welsh male voice choir, Beaufort Male Choir.
Honouring Steve’s achievements is the result of partnership working between the Council, Parc Bryn Bach Running Club, and Aneurin Leisure Trust, supported by crowdfunding and the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
The statue also follows a milestone moment in Steve’s career: last year marked the 40th anniversary of his victory at the Chicago Marathon, a triumph that captivated the world and secured his place in athletic history by setting a world record.
