IT’S not every day you get a WhatsApp message telling you to get a visa — followed by an invitation to compete at the Beijing Rallycross. But that’s exactly what happened to local rally driver Chris Hand, who was contacted by the UCRC Rally Team in China and soon found himself packing his bags for a ten-hour flight to Beijing.

For Chris, a Cilwendeg Rally winner and the current runner-up in the 2025 BRC National Championship, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — and one he grasped with both hands, despite having no prior rallycross experience.

“Rallycross was a completely new discipline for me,” said Chris. “But after a few test runs, we quickly found our rhythm. Working our way through the heats, we lined up fourth for the final. After a hard-fought five-lap race, we managed to bring it home in second place.”

Chris first met William from the UCRC Rally Team during the Grampian Forestry Rally in August, where William took a shine to Chris’s distinctive yellow Toyota Starlet. A few Zoom calls later, an official invitation arrived — and so began an unforgettable adventure.

“It still feels surreal — just an average guy from west Wales competing in such a major international event. It was a truly unbelievable experience. A huge thank you to everyone back home who’s helped keep the wheels turning and made this possible through their support — especially my wife, Letty, whose encouragement means the world.”

Competing in identical cars made for close, fast-paced racing. “There were split seconds between us all,” Chris said. “Without a navigator, it was just pure reaction and focus — and a lot of fun!”

Chris was joined on the trip by Sam Mason, a BRC contender in the Junior Rally 4 category, who sadly suffered a serious accident during the event and was taken to hospital.

Despite the challenges — including a significant language barrier — Chris said the welcome from the UCRC Rally Team was exceptional. “William’s daughter was an incredible help, translating everything and even taking me to see the Great Wall of China and the Bird’s Nest Stadium.”

Reflecting on the experience, Chris added: “I met incredible people on my journey and made lasting friendships. I’d definitely go back again. I’m so grateful to the UCRC Rally Team for making this trip possible.”

Article by Anwen Francis

ARGENTINA 52 – WALES 28
WALES were outgunned in Cardiff as Argentina delivered a ruthless attacking display to run out 52-28 winners in an entertaining but sobering Autumn Nations Series encounter.

The Pumas crossed for a string of well-worked tries, with wingers Mateo Carreras and Bautista Delguy among the scorers, as they tore through a Welsh defence that struggled to cope with their pace and precision.

Argentina dominate the opening exchanges

Argentina set the tone early, dominating possession and territory. Their sharp backline combinations repeatedly found space on the flanks, with Carreras crossing twice before half-time. Fly-half Santiago Carreras dictated play superbly, keeping Wales pinned back with clever kicks and crisp distribution.

Wales show flashes of fight

Wales did find moments of hope, with their fly-half diving over for a well-taken try after a sustained period of pressure midway through the first half. A penalty try early in the second period briefly narrowed the gap, and the scrum-half added another score after a sniping break close to the line.

However, a missed conversion and some loose defending soon allowed Argentina to reassert control. The Pumas’ physical forwards and relentless breakdown work ensured quick ball, and the visitors’ clinical finishing turned opportunities into points time and again.

Clinical finishing seals it

Argentina’s scrum-half added penalties to keep the scoreboard ticking, and every Welsh mistake seemed to be punished. Despite flashes of attacking intent from Wales, the home side never looked likely to close the gap as Argentina continued to pile on the pressure until the final whistle.

Positives and problems

There were positives for Wales — notably the energy shown in attack and moments of creativity from the half-backs — but defensive lapses and discipline remain a concern. Argentina’s superior power and accuracy proved decisive, giving them a comprehensive and deserved victory.

The final scoreline reflected the difference in execution: Argentina 52, Wales 28.

MORE than 1,500 people have transformed their health thanks to a Welsh Government-funded football initiative to tackle obesity and inactivity.

The FIT FANS programme is being run at five Welsh football clubs – Cardiff City, Newport County, Newtown AFC, Swansea City and Wrexham.

The 12-week course has achieved remarkable results, improving the physical and mental wellbeing of participants.

Delivered by the EFL’s charitable arm, EFL in the Community in partnership with the Football Association of Wales, participants take part in exercise sessions and classes to improve their eating habits.

The programme uses football to reach those most at risk of developing serious health conditions, who may not be comfortable accessing support from their GP.

Participants have achieved an average weight loss of 3.7kg for males and 2.8kg for females.

FIT JACKS, led by Swansea City AFC Foundation has helped 267 people at 234 sessions at a variety of locations across the city since February.

Michael Kelleher enrolled at Fit Jacks last year. He said: “When I started Fit Jacks I had sleep apnoea, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and several other medical issues which were causing me serious problems.

“By the time I graduated in January, I had lost 10kg, eradicated the sleep apnoea and improved my diabetes control. I am now off all medications and have started running. It’s a remarkable programme which I will always be indebted too.”

Chief Medical Officer for Wales Professor Isabel Oliver said: “Using the power of football to engage communities, FIT FANS has helped a remarkable number of people reduce their risk of developing serious conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

“It’s wonderful to see the social connections that have been formed through the programme, creating supportive communities that contribute to both physical and mental wellbeing.

“This programme is about preventing ill health before it starts, taking pressure off our NHS, and helping people live longer, healthier lives.”

Debbie Cook, EFL Director of Community said: “The health and wellbeing of people in our Football communities is incredibly important to us. Across our network, we work tirelessly to make a meaningful difference to people’s lives. The key to FIT FANS is that Football brings people together and gives them the chance to meet people like them. They encourage and reassure each other. The support and solutions they give each other are key to making change last.”

With 62% of the Welsh population estimated to be overweight or living with obesity, the scheme helps participants make lasting lifestyle changes.

The programme’s success has extended beyond the 12 weeks of the scheme, with peer support networks being established and WhatsApp groups helping participants maintain their healthy habits and continue their fitness journeys together.

The programme also delivered substantial mental wellbeing benefits, with an increase in life satisfaction and a decrease in anxiety levels.

A £200,000 funding boost from the Welsh Government earlier this year has helped more people access the programme across Wales.