Sport

Welsh Classic Motocross Team triumph in France

Published

1 year 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.

News

Awards celebrate all that is good about Pembrokeshire sport

Published

3 days ago

December 2, 2025

Herald Sport

PEMBROKESHIRE’S sporting community came together on Friday evening as Folly Farm hosted the annual Sport Pembrokeshire Awards – a night dedicated to honouring achievements across every level, age group and discipline.

The awards recognise exceptional performances, inspiring journeys and the volunteers who keep local sport thriving behind the scenes. The ceremony was once again presented by Ceri Coleman-Phillips of BBC Wales Sport, supported by Cris Tomos.

Lifetime honour for Premier League star

This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award went to Pembrokeshire’s own Simon Davies.
The former Wales winger enjoyed a distinguished Premier League career with Fulham, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton.

Davies scored in the 2010 Europa League final for Fulham, won fifty-eight caps for Wales – scoring six – and captained his country during the 2010 World Cup qualifiers. He was named Welsh Footballer of the Year in 2002 and Fulham’s player of the season in 2007–08. After leaving the club in 2013, he returned to his boyhood side Solva AFC, famously paying £3 subs to play against St Ishmaels.

Special recognition for Wales Women’s Street Football Team

Welsh rugby legend Gareth Thomas introduced the evening’s Special Award, honouring the players of the Wales Women’s Street Football Team for their remarkable run to the quarter-finals of the Homeless World Cup in Oslo.

The squad trains in Haverfordwest and included five outstanding Pembrokeshire players – co-captains Tor Planner and Marie Tilley, alongside Claire Mantripp, Sam Lewtas and Bryony Davies. All have overcome personal challenges, including homelessness, mental health difficulties and social exclusion, yet wore the Welsh jersey with pride on the world stage.

The team was led by manager Jo Price, former Wales and Arsenal goalkeeper.
Support staff included Anji Tinley, Manager of the Garth Youth & Community Project and a Pembrokeshire County Councillor.

Cruising Free honoured after rowing the Atlantic

The Chairman’s Award for 2025 was presented by Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman Cllr Maureen Bowen to ‘Cruising Free’ of Neyland Rowing Club, who achieved one of the world’s toughest endurance feats – rowing 3,200 miles across the Atlantic Ocean.

Sophie Pierce, Janine Williams, Miyah Periam and Polly Zipperlan completed the gruelling crossing from Lanzarote to Antigua, raising money for cystic fibrosis and the Paul Sartori Foundation.

At 32, Sophie became the first person with cystic fibrosis to row an ocean, while 70-year-old Janine became the oldest woman ever to complete the challenge. The team’s achievement was hailed as a powerful example of determination, unity and courage.

Parkrun pioneers win School Award

The School Award went to the Federation of Tavernspite and Templeton Schools – the first Parkrun School in the UK.

The federation has built a Parkrun curriculum with Parkrun UK, using the weekly event to boost physical activity, support wellbeing, and develop leadership through the Parkrun Ambassador scheme. The schools were praised for exceptional inclusion, providing adapted PE equipment, wheelchair races and strong support for disadvantaged pupils. Estyn has highlighted their work as best practice.

A strong year for Pembrokeshire sport

Summing up the event, Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said:
“My congratulations go to everyone who won awards and all those nominated. We are so lucky to have such a strong sporting scene here in Pembrokeshire, and my thanks go to all those who work so hard to ensure people of all ages and abilities can take part in the sports they love. Thanks also to our sponsors Valero, Folly Farm and Pure West Radio for supporting this celebration each year.”

Full list of winners

Girls U16: Ava Tyrie (Brazilian Ju Jitsu – Pembroke MMA)
Boys U16: Ned Rees-Wigmore (Hockey)

Club of the Year: Milford Haven Hockey Club (MAIN PHOTO)
Junior Disability: Jake Evans (Llangwm RFC)
Young Volunteer: Alannah Heasman (Haverfordwest High School)
Junior Team: Merlin’s Bridge FC Under-14s 2024/25
Unsung Hero: Jenny Lewis (Clarbeston Road AFC)
Senior Team: Fishguard & Goodwick Ladies Hockey Club
Male Achievement: Liam Bradley (Triathlon)
Female Achievement: Sanna Duthie (Running)
Disability Sport: Rachel Bailey (Boccia)
Club Organiser: Silfan Rhys-Jones (Fishguard Table Tennis Club)
Coach of the Year: James North (Kilgetty AFC)
School Award: Tavernspite & Templeton Federation of Schools
Chairman’s Award: Cruising Free (Neyland Rowing Club)
Special Award: Street Football Wales
Lifetime Achievement: Simon Davies (Wales, Spurs, Fulham, Everton & Solva AFC)

Sport

South Pembrokeshire Short Mat Bowls: Week ten results

Published

4 days ago

November 30, 2025

Herald Sport

The Friendly League continues as Reynalton close the gap on leaders East Williamston

THE LATEST round of fixtures in the South Pembrokeshire Short Mat Bowls Association’s Friendly League produced another mix of tight contests and emphatic victories.

Kilgetty were beaten 8–2 at home by Hundleton, while Reynalton delivered the standout performance of the week with a 10–0 win over East Williamston. Llanteg also impressed, defeating Carew 8–2.

Elsewhere, St Twynnells claimed a 7–3 win away at the Badgers, and Lamphey ran out 7–3 winners against St Johns. Cosheston had the bye.

League table – Week ten

Team	Played	Won	Drawn	Lost	S/D	Points
East Williamston	8	7	0	1	+130	62
Reynalton	8	5	1	2	+64	50
Hundleton	8	4	1	3	+3	42
Llanteg	8	4	0	4	–5	41
Badgers	9	3	1	5	–21	41
St Johns	8	3	1	4	–6	38
St Twynnells	8	4	0	4	–34	37
Lamphey	9	4	0	5	–15	36
Kilgetty	9	4	0	5	–49	36
Cosheston	8	3	0	5	–13	35
Carew	7	3	0	4	–54	32

Reynalton’s dominant win means they move within touching distance of leaders East Williamston, setting up an intriguing second half to the season.

Sport

South Africa run riot as Wales suffer record defeat in Cardiff

Published

5 days ago

November 30, 2025

Herald Sport

Wales 0–73 South Africa
WALES endured one of the heaviest defeats in their history on Saturday as world champions South Africa ran in 11 tries at the Principality Stadium, producing a brutal 73-0 demolition that exposed the gulf between the sides and underlined the scale of the rebuilding task facing Welsh rugby.

The fixture, arranged outside the international window, left Wales without several first-choice players and short on experience. South Africa, by contrast, arrived in Cardiff at full strength and in ruthless form. What followed was a one-sided contest from the opening minutes to the final whistle.

First-half dominance

The Springboks established their authority early, their scrum immediately overpowering the Welsh pack and setting the tone for the afternoon. Tries from Gerhard Steenekamp, Ethan Hooker and Jasper Wiese put the visitors 21-0 ahead, with Wales struggling to exit their own half and repeatedly conceding penalties under pressure.

Wales’ lineout functioned reasonably well and there were brief flashes of ambition from Joe Hawkins, Joe Roberts and Rio Dyer, but every half-chance dissolved through handling errors or South Africa’s suffocating defensive line. A late surge from the Boks saw Morne van den Berg cross just before the break for a 28-0 half-time lead.

Second-half collapse

Any hopes of containment disappeared after the interval. South Africa emptied their bench—bringing on yet more power—and immediately cut through Wales again. Wilco Louw, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (twice), Canan Moodie, Ruan Nortje and Eben Etzebeth all scored in a relentless second half.

Wales’ discipline faltered under the pressure. Taine Plumtree and Aaron Wainwright were both shown yellow cards, with Wainwright’s high tackle sent to the bunker for review. South Africa’s own discipline cracked late on when Etzebeth received a straight red card for making contact with the eye area of Alex Mann—an incident captain Siya Kolisi later claimed was accidental.

Reaction

Player of the match Andre Esterhuizen, who produced a series of thunderous carries and turnovers, said the Springboks “worked really hard” to complete their Autumn clean sweep, praising Wales for “never giving up”.

Kolisi was gracious in victory but said he did not want the Etzebeth incident to overshadow the performance, adding: “The only way a team gets better is by playing the best. Wales will be stronger for facing this.”

Former Wales captain Dan Biggar, working as a pundit, was blunt in his assessment. “There are players there that aren’t at this level now, and may not play this level again,” he said. “I don’t think anyone learned anything from that.”

A difficult day for Welsh rugby

For Wales, the defeat will strengthen scrutiny of the WRU’s scheduling and long-term planning. A young and inexperienced squad battled gamely in patches—Mann, Hawkins and Dyer among those showing fight—but the mismatch was stark.

A crowd of around 50,000, well below capacity, reflected the mood of supporters as another bruising year for Welsh rugby nears its end.

Head coach Warren Gatland will now attempt to piece together the positives from a chastening afternoon, but the bigger questions facing the structure of the game in Wales remain unanswered.