Sport

Records smashed at 2024 Ogi Porthcawl 10K

Published

5 months ago

July 7, 2024

IT was a record breaking 2024 Ogi Porthcawl with new course times set and the highest number of entrants ever.

Over 5,000 runners signed up to take part across the 10K and Ogi Jogi Junior Races, supported by headline sponsor Ogi for the second year.

For the first time, due to so much interest from young athletes in the Future Challengers event, two waves of the race were held, and there was even a Red Arrows flyover, providing more excitement on the day.

Despite strong winds and rainy conditions opening up race morning, the sun made an appearance by late morning bringing bright and breezy conditions to the seaside town.

The fourth staging of the 10K race allowed runners to experience the best of the area, taking in panoramic views across Newton Bay, Trecco Bay and Sandy Bay before racing through Trecco Bay Holiday Park and Coney Beach Pleasure Park.

They then journeyed through the heart of the town before catching a view of Rest Bay and the famous Porthcawl Lighthouse on their sprint to the finish line, located on the Lower Promenade for the first time to give runners a unique opportunity to complete the race with unspoilt sea views at the Town Beach.

Omar Ahmed took the title in the men’s race setting a new course time of 29:08 – shaving 47 seconds of the previous record set by Josh Griffiths in 2019 and securing his third win in as many races in the Run 4 Wales 10K Series.

Ahmed: “I was feeling good but at the beginning of the race it was windy, it was raining and very wet, so I was a bit scared – but eventually I managed to get warm and I’m so happy to win.”

Welshman Dewi Griffiths was hot on his heels securing second place with a time of 29:15 and previous course record holder Josh Griffiths took third with 29:48.

Griffiths added: “I’ve had a turbulent week and have been on antibiotics most of the time but I decided to run on Friday, to give it a go and see what happens. I felt alright out there until Omar kicked in at about 8K and that was it then. But I’ve finished over a minute quicker than I did last year, so I’m happy with that and now looking forward to finishing off the series strong.”

In the women’s race it was Alaw Evans who claimed the top spot in 34:50, followed by Louise Small (35:26) and Eden O’Dea (36:18) in third.

Women’s winner, Evans said: “It was really windy and I forgot how many hills there were so I just ran my own race. I got to 7K and saw the leader so thought I’d just keep doing my own thing and I managed to catch up with her. There was really good support all around the course and I had a few local guys in the group around me who were encouraging with all the cheers – it was great all round.”

A successful Ogi Jogi Toddler Dash, Future Challengers race and Fun Run rounded off the day.

Matt Newman, Run 4 Wales Chief Executive, said: “This year’s Ogi Porthcawl 10K has been our biggest yet. We’re so pleased to have the support of the local community who come out in their droves to support and help provide such a friendly race day atmosphere.

“A huge thank you also goes to our title sponsor, Ogi, for all of their support as well as our other partners including Brecon Carreg, High 5, Bridgend Ford, Bridgend County Borough Council, Coopah and Capital FM, who without the event just wouldn’t be possible.”

Ogi’s Chief Executive Officer, Ben Allwright, added: “Events like the Ogi Porthcawl 10K bring out the best of the community – something we relish here at Ogi. There’s been a real pace, energy and excitement in and around Porthcawl today. Well done to all the runners, jogis and plodders, and a big ‘diolch’ to everyone in the town for putting on yet another successful event. We couldn’t be prouder of our connection with Porthcawl.”

Those are feeling inspired to take part in next year’s event can find out more by visiting porthcawl10K.co.uk or for those who’d like to take part in the last event of the 2024 Run 4 Wales 10K Series, entries are still open for the CDF 10K. Find out more on cardiff10k.cymru/

Elite men’s results:

1. Omar Ahmed (Birchfield Harriers): 29:08

2. Dewi Griffiths (Swansea Harriers): 29:15

3. Josh Griffiths (Swansea Harriers): 29:48

4. Seyfu Jamaal (London Heathside): 29:51

5. Jack Millar (Bristol & West AC): 30:13

Elite women’s results:

1. Alaw Evans (Les Croupiers RC): 34:50

2. Louise Small (Aldershot, Farnham & District): 35:26

3. Eden O’Dea (Deeside AAC): 36:18

4. Donna Morris (Builth & District RC): 36:29

5. Kate Roberts (Swansea Harriers): 36:41

View full results here.

Sport

Stunning start to the EPCR Challenge Cup 2024/25 season

Published

1 hour ago

December 9, 2024

Herald Sport

THE OPENING weekend of the 2024/25 EPCR Challenge Cup delivered thrilling rugby action, with standout performances and record-breaking moments across the competition. Fans were treated to a feast of tries, dramatic plays, and individual brilliance as Europe’s elite club teams clashed in the first round.

Top performers steal the show

Several players etched their names into the headlines with eye-catching performances:

Luke Matkava of Black Lion was a master off the tee, notching up an impressive 17 points, making him the weekend’s top scorer.
Lucas Martin of Aviron Bayonnais led the charge with 22 carries, showcasing his relentless drive on the field.
Nadir Megdoud, also from Aviron Bayonnais, dazzled defenders, beating 21 players—more than anyone else in Round 1.
Jac Price of the Scarlets proved to be a defensive powerhouse, making a tournament-high 26 tackles.

Key stats and records

The opening round saw 49 tries scored and an impressive 384 points racked up across all matches. Among the key highlights:

Connacht’s Chay Mullins delivered the only hattrick of the round, marking a dream debut.
Antoine Aucagne of USAP scored the quickest try of the weekend, touching down just two minutes into their clash with the Toyota Cheetahs.
Gloucester Rugby’s Seb Blake claimed the season’s first try in their match against Edinburgh Rugby, crossing the line at the 10-minute mark.

A weekend to remember

Jeandre Rudolph of Toyota Cheetahs showed versatility, making seven dominant carries, securing four turnovers, and scoring a try in a commanding display. Meanwhile, Scarlets’ duo Jac Price and Alex Craig led defensive efforts, with Price topping the tackles chart and Craig closely behind with 24.

The weekend opened with a nail-biting encounter between Dragons RFC and Montpellier Hérault Rugby, where Aurelian Barreau scored the tournament’s first points via an early penalty.

A promising start

The EPCR Challenge Cup continues to unite teams from the Gallagher Premiership, TOP14, and United Rugby Championship, offering a stage for unforgettable rugby moments. The Principality Stadium in Cardiff is set to host the finals weekend in May, promising an electric atmosphere for fans.

With such an explosive start, rugby enthusiasts can look forward to more drama and excitement as the tournament progresses. For detailed results, updated pools, and more, visit the EPCR Challenge Cup website.

Sport

Ospreys v Emirates Lions match relocated to Parc y Scarlets due to storm

Published

2 days ago

December 7, 2024

Herald Sport

THE HIGHLY anticipated Ospreys v Emirates Lions match in the EPCR Challenge Cup has been moved to Parc y Scarlets after Storm Darragh caused structural damage to the Swansea.com Stadium. The fixture, originally scheduled at the Swansea venue, will still take place on Sunday, December 8, with a 3:15pm kick-off.

Following extensive consultations with EPCR, alternative venues such as St Helen’s and the Dunraven Brewery Field were considered. However, Parc y Scarlets was chosen as the best option, ensuring both player safety and supporter welfare.

In a joint statement, Ospreys and EPCR expressed gratitude to the Scarlets for their swift cooperation in accommodating the match at short notice. “We are incredibly thankful for the Scarlets’ support during this unexpected situation,” the statement read.

The change of venue does not alter the match schedule, and arrangements for ticket and hospitality transfers are being finalised. Supporters are advised to await further updates regarding these details. The match will be broadcast on Premier Sports, SuperSport, and FloRugby.

An EPCR spokesperson added: “We appreciate the understanding of fans during this unforeseen change. We look forward to an exciting game at Parc y Scarlets.”

Sport

All football in Wales postponed as Storm Darragh threatens severe disruption

Published

3 days ago

December 6, 2024

Herald Sport

THE FAW has announced the postponement of all football matches scheduled for Saturday, December 7, as Storm Darragh is set to bring life-threatening conditions to the country.

The decision follows a rare red weather warning issued by the Met Office, forecasting winds of up to 90mph and heavy rainfall across Wales and parts of southwestern England. This is the first red alert since Storm Isha in January, with forecasters warning of extensive disruption, including potential damage to buildings, power outages, and severe flooding.

An FAW spokesperson said:
“The Met Office has issued red, amber, and yellow weather warnings for the vast majority of Wales due to Storm Darragh, which is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rain, causing significant disruption and danger to life.

“It is not safe to drive in such weather, including travelling to and from football matches. Being outside in high winds increases the risk of injury, and the Met Office advises people to stay indoors if possible.

“Clubs have been advised to check for and secure any loose items around their grounds if it can be done safely. This includes bins, furniture, goalposts, and fences.”

Precautions and ongoing assessments

The FAW confirmed that matches scheduled for Friday, December 6, and Sunday, December 8, will be reviewed individually, depending on league policies and updated weather conditions.

The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for rain in Wales from 3:00pm today until midday tomorrow, alongside two amber warnings for wind on Saturday. Rhondda Cynon Taf, where severe flooding affected between 200 and 300 properties during Storm Bert last month, is among the areas bracing for renewed challenges.

Residents are urged to prepare for potential disruptions and stay informed of weather updates. Storm Darragh’s impact is expected to be one of the most severe weather events in recent months, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety advisories.