Sport
Samson puts his weight behind ‘Don’t miss kick off’ guidelines

WALES international Samson Lee has delivered a personal reminder to rugby supporters to arrive at Principality Stadium early to avoid missing the kick off when the Under Armour Series gets underway against Australia tomorrow, Saturday, November 11 (5.15pm).
Due to enhanced security at the venue, Principality Stadium will open three hours before matches kick off against the Wallabies, Georgia, New Zealand and South Africa at the home of Welsh rugby – instead of the 90 minutes Welsh rugby-goers will be used to.
The latest security measures also include 100% personal checks at the turnstiles and advice to leave large bags and large umbrellas at home, to avoid disappointment and causing further delay to fellow supporters entering the stadium.
As a bumper crowd is expected this autumn, the WRU has called on the Scarlets prop help tackle the safety and security messaging for the iconic rugby venue, with a WRUTV spoof to remind fans to plan their travel and arrival at the stadium in advance.
The self-acclaimed ‘Brad Pitt in the making’ stayed behind after training to act out scenes filmed at the team hotel and the national stadium to show supporters that poor planning ahead of match day now comes with the genuine risk of missing kick off.
The budding WRUTV star said: “As a squad we are used to working to a strict schedule where everything from our eating, sleeping, training, kit and transport is planned out to ensure the very best preparation for international matches. The filming for the ‘Don’t miss kick off’ video has really hit home how well prepared we are as a team but also shows the consequences associated with lack of proper planning.
“With the enhanced security measures we are becoming accustomed to in the UK, this is an important message for anyone with tickets for the Under Armour Series and supporters need to arrive early for the 100% search regimes, or, like me in the film, they risk missing kick off!
“Ask any player and they will tell you the best feeling in the world is hearing the roar of the stadium crowd during the anthems. We want every single fan in their seats for the start of the match and I really hope this film raises awareness and motivates our supporters to plan ahead this autumn, as well as being a bit of fun!”
While South Wales Police stress there is no specific threat to Cardiff, Principality Stadium routinely works closely with the Police and the Wales Extremism and Counter Terrorism Unit to deliver appropriate security measures for major events.
Stadium Manager Mark Williams added: “The safety and enjoyment of supporters on matchday is our top priority and so we have increased the gate opening hours to three hours before kick-off for the autumn international matches.
“This will allow a capacity crowd to pass through the enhanced security checks safely and in plenty of time to enjoy the games and the renowned pre-match build up at Principality Stadium.
“We strongly urge fans to assist us in maintaining a safe and secure stadium by getting in early and leaving large bags and large umbrellas at home to avoid unnecessary delays and disappointment.”
Sport
Sean Bowen amongst UK’s highest-earning jockeys as he shines at Cheltenham

PEMBROKESHIRE’S own Sean Bowen, hailing from Letterston, has cemented his place among the UK’s top jockeys, ranking fourth on the all-time career earnings list for British National Hunt riders. With a staggering £11.5 million in prize money to his name, Bowen continues to make waves on the biggest stage—Cheltenham Festival 2025.
Bowen’s rise to the top
The latest rankings, compiled by racing experts at OLBG, highlight Bowen’s remarkable achievements:
Top-Earning British Jockeys
- Sam Twiston-Davies – £21,968,167
- Harry Skelton – £18,837,862
- Harry Cobden – £17,717,810
- Sean Bowen – £11,520,715
- Charlie Deutsch – £7,071,208
Bowen, 26, has quickly become one of the most respected jockeys in the sport, following in the footsteps of his father, Welsh trainer Peter Bowen. His younger brother, James Bowen, also ranks among the top-earning jockeys, sitting in seventh place with £5.6 million in career winnings.
With major wins in the Grand National and multiple Grade 1 victories, Sean Bowen is a name synonymous with Welsh racing success.

Cheltenham Festival 2025: Bowen in Action
This week, Bowen has been front and centre at the Cheltenham Festival, competing in multiple high-stakes races:
- Heads Up – Weatherbys Champion Bumper (Grade 1) (March 12): Bowen guided Heads Up to a strong second-place finish, proving his ability on one of the festival’s biggest stages.
- Western Zephyr – Grand Annual Chase (March 12): In one of the most unpredictable handicap chases, Bowen put in a solid ride aboard Western Zephyr.
- The Goffer – Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase (March 12): Tackling Cheltenham’s unique Cross Country course, Bowen took on the gruelling challenge with The Goffer.
- Might I – Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (March 12): Competing in one of the festival’s most competitive handicap hurdles, Bowen demonstrated his versatility.
- Jane Eire – Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2) (March 13): Bowen will look to add another big festival win to his name in this prestigious event.
A Pembrokeshire jockey on the big stage
As one of Wales’ top sporting figures, Sean Bowen’s continued success keeps Pembrokeshire in the spotlight of British horse racing. With Cheltenham still in full swing, local fans will be hoping for more triumphs from the Letterston star.
His incredible career earnings, combined with his continued performances at the festival, show why he is one of the most respected and successful jockeys in the UK today.
Sport
Seagulls soar over Vikings in friendly clash

FISHGUARD & GOODWICK RFC hosted the Pembrokeshire Vikings on Saturday (Mar 8) in a spirited mixed-ability rugby match. The game, played at a fast pace, saw some seasoned heads in the Fishguard side controlling play, leading to a 34-14 victory for the home team.
Among the notable moments, Senedd Member Samuel Kurtz took to the field for the Seagulls, adding to the competitive but friendly atmosphere. Vikings mascot and vice-captain Luca Morillo played his first match alongside his father, Andrew Morillo, who captained the team for the day. Joe Lewis also made a welcome return, featuring in his first game of the season.

The Vikings’ standout performers included James Tylor, Daffyd Cowl, Ross Price, and Ashley Couceiro. Special recognition went to Gareth Rees, who played his final match before undergoing surgery. Coach Gethin Bateman was actively involved throughout, rallying his side.
The Vikings’ points came from tries by Daf Cowl and Luca Morillo, with Morillo’s try converted by his father. Cowl was named sponsors’ man of the match for his efforts.
While the match left a few sore bodies in its wake, it was a celebration of rugby’s inclusive spirit and camaraderie.

Sport
Pembrokeshire Div 2: Narberth stay top as Fishguard edge nine-goal thriller

LEAGUE leaders Narberth remain in control of the Division 2 title race, holding a two-point advantage over Fishguard Sports, who secured a dramatic 5-4 victory over Johnston.
Fishguard win nine-goal battle
Fishguard Sports kept their title hopes alive with a thrilling 5-4 win over Johnston. Goals from Anthony Couzens, Greg Hughes, Ieuan Llewellyn, Luke Thomas, and Matthew Lewis ensured the visitors claimed all three points. Johnston fought back with a hat-trick from Callum Rees and a strike from Josh Knapp, but it wasn’t enough to deny Fishguard.
Lawrenny run riot against Solva
Two of last season’s promoted sides met in a crucial battle for survival, with Lawrenny overpowering Solva 8-3. Joe Kidney led the charge with a hat-trick, supported by Owen James (2), Matthew Lewis (2), and Sam Davies. Solva responded through Kieran Price (2) and Josh Bland but struggled to cope with Lawrenny’s attacking firepower.
Carew Reserves claim vital win
Carew Reserves picked up a crucial 3-1 away victory at Broad Haven. Connor Hay opened the scoring before James Hinchliffe struck twice. Marco Valentine netted for the hosts, but the visitors proved too strong.
Weekend round-up
With Hakin United Reserves and Camrose both out of action, Fishguard closed the gap on Narberth, while Broad Haven remain winless at the foot of the table.
Division 2 standings
Position | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | PTS |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Narberth | 18 | 15 | 2 | 1 | +59 | 47 |
2 | Fishguard Sports | 18 | 14 | 3 | 1 | +62 | 45 |
3 | Hakin Utd Reserves | 19 | 13 | 2 | 4 | +39 | 41 |
4 | Camrose | 19 | 11 | 1 | 7 | +18 | 34 |
5 | Neyland | 18 | 9 | 3 | 6 | +14 | 30 |
6 | Merlins Bridge Res | 19 | 9 | 3 | 7 | +14 | 27 |
7 | Johnston | 18 | 7 | 5 | 6 | +7 | 26 |
8 | Carew Reserves | 21 | 6 | 3 | 12 | -31 | 21 |
9 | Solva | 22 | 4 | 6 | 12 | -19 | 18 |
10 | Lawrenny | 20 | 4 | 2 | 14 | -51 | 14 |
11 | Monkton Swifts Res | 18 | 3 | 4 | 11 | -45 | 13 |
12 | Broad Haven | 18 | 0 | 4 | 14 | -67 | 4 |
-
Top News2 days ago
Pembrokeshire man sentenced for driving four times over drink-drive limit
-
News3 days ago
Oil tanker and cargo ship ablaze after collision in North Sea
-
News7 days ago
Pembrokeshire Council Tax rise for residents at 9.35% agreed
-
Entertainment7 days ago
Top home renovation ideas for 2025
-
Farming7 days ago
Plaid Cymru demands pause to ‘destructive’ farm tax
-
News3 days ago
Pembrokeshire becomes latest council to consider devolution of Crown Estate
-
Crime2 days ago
John Cooper appeal file still under review, but CCRC says process ‘will take time’
-
Business3 days ago
New owners reopen The Vibe in Milford Haven