News

Ironman opens up entry to children

Published

12 years ago

April 4, 2014

IT’S ONE of the most arduous sporting events in the world which attracts competitors from 40 countries and more than 10,000 spectators, as well as generating around £4m for the local economy each year.

Now the Ironman Wales event, which begins on Tenby’s iconic North Beach, is broadening its appeal by developing the competition for children. With the adults event comprising a 2.4 mile-swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26-mile marathon, all without a break, the children’s competition isn’t nearly as gruelling. Children as young as three can take part in the Ironkids run which covers distances from 500m to 2,500m for children aged up to 14.

Coming to Pembrokeshire for a fourth consecutive year in September, organisers say the Ironkids event is aimed at encouraging youngsters to lead active and healthy lifestyles. Spokeswoman Waveney Thomson said the event in Tenby had attracted a huge interest from young people, many of whom have been inspired as spectators.

“In Pembrokeshire, we’re changing the event slightly to add a bit more to the atmosphere, bringing the children’s event into the town, where before we did a splash and a run on just on the beach,” she said.

She said it follows the success of the Ironkid event in Bolton, which attracted a record-breaking 2,000 competitors last year.

“It is our fastest growing event,” she added.

“That became the world’s largest Ironkids running event. There is obviously the demand out there and with a huge national drive to include children in sports activities,and tackle obesity, the Ironman event seems to have been hugely inspiring.”

The adult event’s trio of strength sapping challenges pushes even the most accomplished of athletes to their limits. Competitor Lowri Phillips from Cilgerran, took part in the 2012 event. The 33-year old, who also took part in an iron distance event in Copenhagen said Ironman Wales is considered one of the world’s toughest courses.

“I can definitely vouch for that as it’s probably the hardest race I’ve ever done. It’s also the most rewarding,” she added.

“The feeling of running down the finishing chute after 26 miles of running – or a lot of walking in my case, 112 miles of cycling and 3.8km of swimming can’t really be described but I’d definitely recommend it to anyone.”

Regional manager at Sport Wales, James Owens, said “Major sporting events such as the Ironman provide fantastic opportunities for getting even more of our youngsters taking part in sport, which of course is crucially important to them leading a healthier lifestyle.

“We know that children get inspired by watching and being part of events like this.

“Ironman Wales has grown year on year and so have the come and try opportunities around it.”

Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

8 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

8 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

8 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.