Sport

Welsh Classic Motocross Team triumph in France

Published

3 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

Manderwood Pembrokeshire Football League – Division 1: Match reports

Published

4 days ago

November 19, 2024

Herald Sport

Goodwick United 3–0 Merlins Bridge
League leaders Goodwick United claimed a commanding 3–0 victory over Merlins Bridge at the Pembrokeshire Sports Village. Rhys Jones broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute with a spectacular 25-yard free kick. An own goal by Nick Squire early in the second half doubled the advantage, and Jones sealed the win with a stoppage-time strike. The result keeps Goodwick four points clear at the top as they push to retain their title.

Carew 16–0 Herbrandston
Carew delivered a record-breaking performance, thrashing Herbrandston 16–0 at the Gerald Hicks Memorial Ground. James Hinchliffe led the charge with six goals, supported by Shaun Whitfield’s rapid hat-trick. George Waters contributed four goals, Gareth Lewis added two, and Leon Davies completed the rout. The emphatic win lifted Carew out of the relegation zone, while Herbrandston remains firmly at the bottom of the table.

Clarbeston Road 5–2 St Ishmaels
Clarbeston Road cruised to a 5–2 victory over St Ishmaels at Knock Field. Ben John missed an early penalty for Clarbeston but redeemed himself by assisting Jake Wesley’s equaliser. Laurie Haworth and Dan Rees found the net, with Wesley adding a second to complete the scoring for Clarbeston. St Ishmaels’ captain Brennan Devonald netted twice, but his side dropped into the relegation zone.

Monkton Swifts 1–4 Hakin United
Hakin United strengthened their title challenge with a 4–1 win over Monkton Swifts. Dylan Davies put Monkton ahead early, but Hakin responded through Ryan Wilson and Mark Jones to take a 2–1 lead into halftime. Jay Kilby scored twice in the second half, sealing a vital away win for the Vikings.

Milford United 2–2 Pennar Robins
Milford United and Pennar Robins played out an entertaining 2–2 draw at Marble Hall. Liam Davies gave Milford the lead, but Jamie Wilkes equalised for Pennar. Dan James then put Pennar ahead, only for Leon Davies to bring Milford level again. Milford’s Sam Davies was sent off late, but neither side could find a winner in the closing stages.

Tenby 2–3 Kilgetty
Kilgetty staged a thrilling comeback to defeat derby rivals Tenby 3–2 at the Clicketts. Joe Leahy opened the scoring for Tenby, with Jordan Gorman quickly levelling for Kilgetty. Scott Ferney restored Tenby’s lead before halftime. However, Kilgetty turned the tide in the final ten minutes as Lloyd Hughes equalised, and captain Richard Cope struck the decisive winner to secure a dramatic victory.

Sport

Local rugby action: Thrills, wins, and tough battles across divisions

Published

4 days ago

November 19, 2024

Herald Sport

Crymych 19 – Llanelli Wanderers 33
Llanelli Wanderers showcased their title aspirations with a decisive bonus-point victory over Crymych. Despite a spirited effort from the Preseli Men, who trailed 12-18 at halftime, they couldn’t capitalize on second-half opportunities.

Crymych’s hooker Lee Griffiths scored two tries in the first half, and a late penalty try offered some consolation. The Wanderers, under Sean Gale’s guidance, proved dominant with tries from Rhydian Morgan, Lewis Jones, Rhodri Owens, and Sam Icke. Jones contributed two conversions and three penalties, keeping the Wanderers in contention at the top of the table. Crymych remain in a relegation battle.

Division One (West)

Pontarddulais 17 – Tenby United 26
Tenby United maintained their unbeaten streak with a hard-earned seventh victory of the season, defeating a determined Pontarddulais side. Though missing a bonus point, the disciplined Seasiders secured a valuable win.

Lloyd Thomas played a pivotal role, kicking four penalties and converting tries by Gwion Jones and Rob Luly. Acting skipper Jones shone with an individual effort. Pontarddulais responded with tries from Ethan Miles, Lewis Edwards, and Iwan Evans. Tenby stay second in the league with a game in hand over leaders Aberystwyth.

Division Two (West)

Whitland 13 – Fishguard & Goodwick 10
A late Harry Fuller penalty sealed Whitland’s narrow victory in a fiercely contested clash with Fishguard and Goodwick. The Seagulls led 7-3 at halftime after Ben John’s converted try answered Johnny Thomas’s penalty.

Rhys Nicholas turned the game in Whitland’s favor with a crucial intercept try, converted by Thomas. Although Mark Jones briefly leveled the scores, Fuller’s decisive penalty secured Whitland’s fourth win of the season.

Carmarthen Athletic 23 – Milford Haven 10
Carmarthen Athletic overturned a halftime deficit to claim a solid home win over Milford Haven. The Mariners led 10-6 at the break, thanks to Robbie Jones’s converted try and a James Trueman penalty.

The Athletic surged back with 17 unanswered points, including tries from Gethin Phillips, Morgan Morse, and Deian Morgan. Zak Williams added the conversions and penalties to seal the victory. Milford missed out on a losing bonus point in their fourth defeat of the season.

Division Three (West)

Cefneithin 16 – Cardigan 29
Cardigan continued their strong form with a bonus-point win over Cefneithin. The Teifisiders led 15-6 at halftime, with Marcus Castle and Shaun Leonard crossing the try line. Leonard was instrumental, adding another try and three conversions.

John Lumb and Jack Taylor scored second-half tries as Cardigan capitalized on excellent possession. Cefneithin fought back with a try by Jonathan Morgan and three penalties from Carwyn Evans but fell short.

Division Four (West)

Llanybydder 17 – Neyland 43
Neyland dazzled with a six-try bonus-point victory over Llanybydder. Leading 24-5 at halftime, the All Blacks saw tries from Owain Evans, Matthew Coles, Owen Hamer, and skipper Georghe Williams.

Young winger Josh Watts added two second-half tries. Llanybydder responded with tries from Jake Evans, Dan Davies, and Dan Jones, converted by Ethan Sion Mathias, but Neyland’s dominance was unshaken as they returned to the top of the table.

Teirw Crymych 17 – St Davids 17
Teirw Crymych and St Davids battled to a draw in a thrilling encounter. The Bulls dominated early, building a 14-0 lead with tries from George Plummer and Trystan Griffiths, both converted by Adam Phillips.

St Davids stormed back with tries by Will James and Tom Clarke, before George Raymond’s late try leveled the scores. The conversion went wide, leaving both teams to share the points.

Dreigiau Emlyn 14 – Narberth Athletic 3
Narberth Athletic’s unbeaten run ended at Ddol Wiber as Dreigiau Emlyn’s forward strength secured a gritty win. A single forward-driven try and three penalties proved enough for the Dragons.

Athletic struggled to convert pressure into points, their only score coming from a Shane Rossiter penalty. The Dragons celebrated their third victory of the season.

Llangwm 17 – Pembroke 22
In a heated Division Four West derby, Pembroke edged out Llangwm in the first leg of the Palmer Cup at Pill Parks. The Scarlets held firm against a late surge to secure the win.

Llangwm opened strongly, with James Morgan and Dan Richards scoring tries, both converted by Harry Makepeace. Pembroke’s forwards turned the tide, with Jamie Brayford (2), Robin Badham, and Josh Greenwood crossing the line. Despite Llangwm’s late efforts, Pembroke extended their winning streak to three matches.

Sport

Pembrokeshire Vikings triumph over Port Talbot panthers

Published

4 days ago

November 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE VIKINGS faced a tough challenge against the formidable Port Talbot Panthers at Milford Haven RFC on Sunday afternoon. In a fiercely contested battle, the Vikings emerged as worthy winners with a final score of 33-17.

The Vikings’ try scorers included Dave Roberts, Karl Bate, Shaun Treadwell, Richard Williams, and Jack Elliott. Callum Power added to the scoreboard with four successful conversions. Karl Bate’s standout performance earned him the Man of the Match award.

A special mention goes to Sean Phillips, who made a welcome return to the team. Phillips delivered a brilliant 30-metre line break, unselfishly passing the ball to Dave Roberts, who crossed under the posts. His contribution exemplified the team spirit that defines the Vikings.

Matches between the Vikings and the Panthers are always marked by fierce rivalry, but also by strong friendships forged on and off the field. The team eagerly anticipates the return fixture in 2025.

The Vikings also extended their gratitude to Barry from Pembrokeshire College, a loyal supporter of the team. Additionally, thanks were given to sponsors Austwel LTD, Hedley Asset Management, and The Pembrokeshire Herald for their ongoing support.

Next match: A historic showdown

This Saturday, the Pembrokeshire Vikings will travel to Llandaff RFC to make history in a match against Rygbi Senedd Cymru. The team looks forward to another thrilling encounter as they continue their successful season.