Sport

Welsh Classic Motocross Team triumph in France

Published

4 months ago

August 26, 2024

IN a historic and hard-fought victory, the Welsh Classic Motocross team has emerged triumphant at the prestigious Motocross International des Nations Classique. This three-day event, held on the revered ex-Grand Prix circuit in Ahun, France, saw a formidable Welsh contingent of 25 riders take on 16 other teams from 14 nations, ultimately claiming first place and etching their name into the annals of motocross history.

The vision for this victory was born in the mind of Sean Smith, the team manager from Pembroke. What began as an ambitious dream—creating an unbiased and diverse Welsh team to compete on the international stage—soon became a reality. Initially expecting to field a modest team of five riders, the plan quickly expanded as interest surged among Welsh riders. By the time they set off for France, the team had grown to an impressive 25 riders, backed by 24 dedicated sponsors, including the lead sponsor, Mitsui Components Europe Ltd.

The journey to central France was not just a physical one; it was a test of endurance and determination. Upon arrival on 16 August, the team faced a rigorous day of technical inspections and administrative formalities. The highlight of the day, however, was a team track walk, where the riders first laid eyes on the circuit prepared by Club AMC Ahun. The track, daunting and formidable, presented a significant challenge. However, the team’s spirits remained unshaken. Practical solutions were devised during team discussions, laying the groundwork for what would become a memorable competition.

Race day on 17 August began with timed practice laps and qualifications across nine race classes, each defined by the age category of the classic bikes. From the outset, it was clear that Team Wales had arrived with intent. The Welsh riders clocked some of the fastest times of the day, with the team securing the top three track times in the process. The atmosphere was electric, fuelled by the passionate support of Welsh fans who had made the journey to cheer on their compatriots.

However, the day was not without its setbacks. The team suffered 14 Did Not Finishes (DNFs) due to technical issues and a serious crash involving Bridgend’s Andrew Gillett. Gillett, who had dominated his qualifying lap with a time 16 seconds faster than his closest competitor, was forced out of the competition after being taken down by another rider. Despite this, Team Wales ended the day in a strong second place.

The afternoon brought a much-needed respite with the Parade of Nations, where each country proudly displayed its colours. The sight of the Welsh team, united and proud, was a moment of immense pride for all involved.

The final day of competition on 18 August was nothing short of spectacular. One of the standout moments was a thrilling battle between Ammanford’s Carl Jones and France’s multiple Le Touquet race winner, Rudy Vergriette. The nail-biting, wheel-to-wheel duel drew comparisons to legendary races of the 1990s, showcasing the very best of classic motocross.

Class Highlights

Pre 65-70: Kevin Pettit (Treorchy) overcame initial nerves to finish fifth in his class, while Rob Morgan (Slebech) achieved a lifetime-best seventh place. Barrie Townend (Baschurch), riding the oldest machine in the competition, finished eighth.
1971-1975: Llanelli’s Dan Evans, a multiple pre-74 Classic champion, secured victory in his class and emerged as Team Wales’ top points scorer.
1976-1979: Tom Herring (Glynneath), despite mechanical issues, piloted ‘The Tank’ to sixth place, contributing significantly to the team’s points tally.
1980-83 Group A: Nigel Davies (Carmarthen) and Dylan Davies (Newcastle Emlyn) both delivered determined performances, finishing eighth and 13th, respectively.
1984-89 Group A: Carmarthen’s Mckaulee Malin, known as ‘Macka last lap’ Malin, was the team’s secret weapon, finishing first in his class and second in overall team points. Carl Jones (Ammanford) dazzled spectators with his thrilling rides, despite mechanical issues that kept him from the podium.
1990-95: Kip Herring (Glynneath), returning from retirement, claimed third place overall in his class, while Stephen Redfern (Llanelli) was lauded as the Team Wales Rider of the Event, finishing fourth overall.
1996-99: Carl Jones (Ammanford) once again displayed his prowess, finishing seventh despite mechanical challenges, while Neil Thomas (Swansea) pushed through to a top-six finish in his class.

The Welsh spirit was not confined to the track. In the team’s hospitality tent, Welsh products like Penderyn Whiskey, Cinnamon Grove Distillery’s offerings, Welsh cakes, and Bara Brith were shared with competitors and supporters alike, fostering a sense of camaraderie that transcended national boundaries.

As the final results were read out in reverse order at the end of the second day of racing, tension filled the air. When Wales was announced as the winners, the team erupted in cheers and tears of joy. The Welsh riders ascended the podium amidst great celebrations, with champagne flowing and an evening of camaraderie following.

Sean Smith, the mastermind behind Team Wales, expressed his heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this momentous achievement. Special thanks were extended to Georgina Davies for her administrative and social media work, Sue Jones for her invaluable support as the team’s makeshift medic, and the numerous sponsors, riders, fans, and organisers who made this victory possible.

As the team looks ahead to defending their title in 2025, the victory in France will stand as a testament to the resilience, skill, and unbreakable spirit of Welsh motocross.

Final Standings:

Wales – 277 Points
Showtime – 261 Points
Italy – 226 Points
France – 225 Points
Lorraine – 209 Points
…
USA – 20 Points
Brittany – 10 Points

For the Welsh team, this victory is more than just a win; it’s a celebration of the sport, the community, and the nation they proudly represent.

Sport

Devonald’s hat-trick secures St Ishmaels’ dominant win over Herbrandston

Published

5 days ago

December 18, 2024

Herald Sport

Herbrandston 0 – St Ishmaels 6

BRENNAN DEVONALD delivered a masterclass as St Ishmaels thrashed Herbrandston 6-0, with the skipper leading from the front and scoring a stunning hat-trick. The comprehensive victory propels St Ishmaels to eighth in the league table, while Herbrandston remain rooted to the bottom without a single point.

The visitors asserted their dominance from the outset. Devonald opened the scoring in the 9th minute, latching onto a pinpoint assist from Owen Lawrence. He doubled their lead just before halftime in the 40th minute, again set up by Lawrence, giving St Ishmaels a comfortable cushion at the break.

St Ishmaels maintained their momentum in the second half, adding four more goals to cap off a stellar team performance. Adam Kingsbeer’s clever play set up Ieuan Hawkins for the third, before Tom Williams capitalised on another opportunity to make it 4-0. Devonald sealed his hat-trick in the 85th minute with an expertly taken goal, and Joel Mills added the finishing touch in the dying moments, courtesy of an assist from Sol Goodall.

Team line-ups

Herbrandston: Adrian Rees, Oliver Robinson, Ethan Chalker, Scott Findlay, Dean John (Captain), Harley Barrett, Gedion Hockin, Leon Whatling, Scott Gillespie, Cian Davenport. Subs: Leo Duncan, Jacob James, Nico Cockrell.

St Ishmaels: Owen Thomas, Sol Goodall, Owen Lawrence, Finley Armstrong, Brennan Devonald (Captain), Adam Kingsbeer, Ieuan Hawkins, Joel Mills, Tom Williams, Daniel Coe, Nathan Thomas. Subs: Max Howells, Tyler Sheil.

Sport

Dominant wins for Pembrokeshire sides in West Wales Intermediate Cup round 3

Published

5 days ago

December 18, 2024

Herald Sport

Goodwick United 7-0 Carew

Goodwick United put on a commanding performance with a 7-0 triumph over Carew. The home side proved too powerful for their opponents, with Rhys Dalling and Rhys Jones each bagging two goals. Matty Delaney, Will Haworth, and Daniel Bryce also got their names on the scoresheet. As one of Pembrokeshire’s top teams, Goodwick will aim to build on this dominant win as they progress to the next round.

Hakin United 13-0 Clydach Sports

Hakin United were in ruthless form as they dispatched Clydach Sports 13-0. Jack Britton led the charge with an impressive five-goal haul, while Liam Parks netted a hat-trick. Jack Griffiths, Jay Kilby, Kieran King, Justin Harding, and Mason Dolling all contributed to the comprehensive scoreline. Hakin, one of the premier teams in Pembrokeshire, will be keen to continue their pursuit of the cup after this emphatic victory.

Merlins Bridge 7-3 Treboeth United

Merlins Bridge secured a thrilling 7-3 victory over Treboeth United in an exciting encounter. Nathan Evans was the star of the show, scoring a hat-trick, while Tom Jago, Jason Griffiths, Hayden Dimond, and Ashton Plunkett all found the back of the net. Treboeth’s Liam Manning, Cori Jones, and Matthew Colley fought valiantly but could not prevent the home side from taking the win. Merlins Bridge will be pleased with their attacking display and will look to build on this result.

Monkton Swifts 5-4 Clarbeston Road

In a dramatic local derby, Monkton Swifts edged out Clarbeston Road 5-4 in a high-scoring affair. Dylan Davies was the standout performer with four goals, and Liam Butland added another. Clarbeston Road fought hard with goals from Laurie Haworth, Matthew Davies, Greg Brown, and Ben John, but it was the Swifts who held on to secure the victory. Monkton will be happy to progress after such a closely contested match.

Neyland 1-2 Cwm Wanderers

Neyland were narrowly defeated 2-1 by Cwm Wanderers in a closely contested match. Ben Gale scored for Neyland, but goals from Joseff Shaw and Corey Raven-Sayce gave the visitors the edge. Despite a valiant effort from Neyland, Cwm Wanderers held firm to secure the win and advance to the next round.

Plough Colts 0-2 Pennar Robins

Pennar Robins comfortably saw off Plough Colts 2-0, with Kieran Smith and Jamie Wilkes scoring the goals. Pennar demonstrated their class and will look to carry this momentum forward into the next round.

Tenby 2-0 Blaen-y-Maes

Tenby continued their fine form with a 2-0 victory over Blaen-y-Maes. Sam Butler and Scott Ferney were on target for Tenby, who have been one of the most impressive sides this season. This win further cements Tenby’s status as one of the top contenders in the competition.

Analysis:

Pembrokeshire’s leading teams, Goodwick United and Hakin United, demonstrated their superiority with commanding wins, while Tenby showed their credentials with a solid 2-0 victory. With such dominant performances, Goodwick and Hakin are likely to be among the favourites to claim the title, with Tenby also emerging as a serious contender in this year’s West Wales Intermediate Cup.

Sport

Thrills and dominance: Narberth shine in 6-1 victory

Published

5 days ago

December 18, 2024

Herald Sport

Broad Haven 4-4 Solva

In an exhilarating, high-scoring encounter, Broad Haven played out a 4-4 draw with Solva. Marco Valentine netted twice for Broad Haven, with Owen Sheppard and Shane Howells also getting on the scoresheet. Solva responded through Josh Bland, who scored a hat-trick, and Lucas Price, ensuring the points were shared in this thrilling clash.

Camrose 1-3 Fishguard Sports

Fishguard Sports claimed a 3-1 victory over Camrose, with a clinical display of attacking play. Andrew John scored the only goal for Camrose, but Fishguard’s offensive strength proved overwhelming. Anthony Couzens, Luke Thomas, and Ieuan Llewellyn all found the net to guide their side to victory.

Carew II 0-2 Hakin United II

Hakin United II earned a solid 2-0 win over Carew II. Rowan Dixon and Tom Edmonds were the scorers for the visitors, with Carew struggling to break down Hakin’s defense. It was a well-executed performance that saw Hakin advance with all three points.

Johnston P-P Merlins Bridge II

The match between Johnston and Merlins Bridge II was postponed, with no further details available at the time of writing.

Lawrenny 1-6 Narberth

Narberth cruised to a commanding 6-1 victory over Lawrenny. Owen James scored the lone goal for Lawrenny, but Narberth’s attacking prowess was on full display as Steffan Williams scored twice, and Ashley Williams, Chris Brown, Conor Bowen, and Ryan Williams each found the back of the net in a comprehensive win.

Analysis:

The 14th December 2024 fixtures saw a blend of thrilling draws and dominant victories. Broad Haven and Solva shared the spoils in an action-packed 4-4 draw, while Fishguard Sports, Hakin United II, and Narberth all secured convincing wins. Narberth’s 6-1 triumph over Lawrenny was the standout result of the day, highlighting their attacking firepower.