[3] Jelley celebrated his 100th birthday in August 2022, saying: "Turning 100 doesn't feel any different than how I've ever felt – I think it's just a bit of a shock when you first look at that number".

[5] After the Second World War, Jelley returned to New Zealand to begin studies at Dunedin Teachers' College and at the University of Otago.

He took Neville Scott to the 5000 metres final at the 1964 Summer Olympics and helped Ian Studd win bronze in the mile at the 1966 British Empire and Commonwealth Games.

However, five years later, he agreed to coach Hamish Carson,[7] who subsequently represented New Zealand at the 2016 Summer Olympics in the 1500 metres.

[9] Jelley’s first wife Rachel knew he was a keen card player and encouraged him to attend the Mt Albert Bridge Club,[9] where he has been involved since 1990.

[12] Jelley was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2021 New Years Honours, for his work as a coach and an administrator in athletics and bridge.