Deputy First Minister outlines next steps towards ending the sport

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has announced the formation of a dedicated implementation group to oversee the transition towards a complete ban on greyhound racing in Wales.

The group was confirmed in a written statement issued on Friday (July 11) by Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs. It follows his previous statement made on June 24.

The newly formed group will include representatives from the greyhound racing industry, animal welfare charities, local authorities, and veterinary professionals. Its purpose is to ensure that the phase-out of greyhound racing is delivered in a way that prioritises animal welfare, supports those affected by the changes, and minimises disruption to local communities.

Dr Emily Blackwell, Senior Lecturer in Animal Behaviour and Welfare at Bristol Veterinary School, has been appointed Chair of the group. She will be supported by two veterinary surgeons, representatives of Valley Stadium—the only remaining greyhound racing track in Wales—members of the Cut the Chase Coalition, and various animal welfare organisations.

The group met for the first time on Friday to begin outlining its remit and planning its work schedule.

Mr Irranca-Davies said: “Legislation to ban greyhound racing in Wales will be introduced this autumn. In the meantime, we must ensure that the transition is well-planned and fair to all involved. This includes safeguarding the welfare of dogs currently within the industry and supporting owners and local communities as we move away from the practice.”

He added: “Wales aspires to be a leader in animal health and welfare. Ending greyhound racing is a step in that direction. The implementation group’s expertise will be vital in helping us achieve this goal.”

The Welsh Government says the group will continue to meet over the coming months as it prepares for the introduction of the ban later this year.

World-class triathletes descend on South Wales as Swansea hosts its first-ever IRONMAN Pro Series event

WALES will play host to a major milestone in triathlon history this weekend as IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea becomes the first-ever IRONMAN Pro Series event to take place on Welsh soil.

The race, held on Sunday (July 13), marks the twelfth stop on the 2025 global tour and is expected to draw thousands of spectators to the Swansea seafront. More than 60 professional athletes and over 2,500 age-group competitors will take part in the prestigious swim-bike-run event.

Among the elite contenders is reigning Swansea champion Harry Palmer (GBR), making his season debut, alongside Kat Matthews, the 2024 IRONMAN Pro Series champion, and Kristian Høgenhaug (DEN), who finished third in last year’s standings.

With $50,000 in prize money and up to 2,500 series points at stake, the event carries serious weight for those chasing the overall series crown and qualification slots for the 2025 IRONMAN World Championships in Nice and Kona.

Race day will begin at 7:00am with the professional men’s start, followed by the pro women at 7:05am, and the mass start for age-group athletes at 7:10am. The course features a scenic but challenging route, with a city-centre finish expected to be buzzing with spectators.

The event will also be broadcast live across the world on platforms including YouTube, DAZN, Outside TV (US and Canada), and ESPN via Disney+ (Latin America and Caribbean).

Speaking ahead of the event, organisers said Swansea had earned its place on the global calendar. “Bringing the Pro Series to Wales is a huge moment for triathlon in the UK, and especially for South Wales,” a spokesperson said.

A free-to-attend Pro Athlete Panel will take place at 2:00pm on Friday (July 11) at the Waterfront Museum’s Ocean Room, offering the public a chance to meet some of the sport’s biggest stars.

Among those set to speak are Germany’s Anne Reischmann, who currently leads the 2025 standings, and Britain’s Lizzie Rayner, who already has two podium finishes this year.

The oldest registered athlete is David Ransom, aged 77, while the youngest is 18-year-old Jaden Morgan, highlighting the sport’s wide appeal.

Media wishing to attend must register in advance, with accreditation closing on Friday. Race-day walk-ins will not be granted access to restricted areas.

MORE than 60 pupils have enjoyed trying out a range of different sports in a special
Sport Pembrokeshire event held last month

The event was held at Ysgol Glannau Gwaun with 65 pupils
from Years, 4,5 and 6 and the ALN unit taking part.

The sessions were run by local community clubs and Young Ambassadors from
Ysgol Bro Gwaun with pupils getting to enjoy rugby, cricket, hockey, archery and golf.
Sharon Osborne from Ysgol Glannau Gwaun, said: “Thanks to Sport Pembrokeshire
for organising a fantastic morning of activities for our pupils. They all thoroughly
enjoyed themselves.”

Dan Bellis of Sport Pembrokeshire, added: “A big thanks to Fishguard & Goodwick
Hockey Club, Fishguard and Goodwick Rugby Club and the Young Ambassadors
from Ysgol Bro Gwaun for putting on a fabulous morning of activities in glorious
sunshine!

“A big well done to all the pupils from Ysgol Glannau Gwaun for their effort and
enthusiasm throughout the morning.”