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Wales rugby legend Alix Popham bows out of Ironman Tenby

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EX-WALES rugby star, Alix Popham, had to bow out of Ironman Wales in Tenby due to a suspected concussion sustained from an accidental kick to the head during the swim segment.

The 43-year-old former rugby sensation, who had diligently trained for the triathlon for several months, was participating in aid of Head for Change. This noble foundation advocates for proactive measures to ensure brain health in sports and offers support to former athletes grappling with neurodegenerative diseases.

Popham’s illustrious career saw him earn 33 caps between 2003 and 2008, with two World Cup appearances. Tragically, at just 40, he was diagnosed with probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

Tragedy struck again on Sunday. After embarking on the race with other ex-Wales teammates, Popham had to make the heartbreaking decision to pull out after the unfortunate incident during the swim.

Progressive Rugby, a lobby group, swiftly took to Twitter at 10:21am, sharing: “Devastating news. A heart-wrenching irony. Despite training rigorously to champion concussion awareness and support, Alix has had to exit due to a suspected concussion from an inadvertent kick during the swim. Our deepest sympathies are with him.” This came mere moments after Popham, along with 2,000 other participants, set out from Tenby’s North Beach to face one of the most gruelling endurance challenges known.

Earlier that morning, at 9:37am, Progressive Rugby had cheered: “They’re underway! Sending best wishes to our very own Alix Popham and Ian Gough as they tackle the Ironman in Tenby. They’re joined by an amazing team supporting Head for Change, including Shane Williams and actor Mark Lewis Jones. All the best to the team!”

The formidable Tenby course, celebrated for its sheer difficulty and breathtaking scenery, consists of a 2.4-mile sea swim, a challenging 112-mile bike ride through hilly terrain, and a full marathon. Athletes have a 17-hour window to complete this Herculean task.

 

Crime

Man in critical condition after serious assault in New Quay

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A 20-YEAR-OLD man remains in a critical condition in hospital after being seriously assaulted in New Quay.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the incident happened at around 12:51am on Saturday (July 4) in Margaret Street, leading to Uplands Square.

The victim suffered serious, life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

A 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in police custody.

Police said enquiries are progressing, led by CID and the Major Crime Team. A visible police presence is expected to remain in the area over the coming days.

Officers are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with information, to come forward.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], by direct message on social media, or by calling 101.

Quote reference: DP-20260704-028.

 

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Community

Kilgetty and Begelly tractor run raises funds for local charities

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Around 70 tractors joined the annual charity road run, hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel

THE ANNUAL Kilgetty and Begelly Charity Tractor Run brought a colourful convoy to the roads around the Narberth area on Saturday (Jul 4), with around 70 tractors taking part.

The event was hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel, where farmers, families and supporters gathered before the start of the run.

Entrants were treated to bacon rolls and coffee by the hosts before setting off, while many families took the opportunity to pose for photographs alongside the tractors.

The road run once again proved to be a popular community event, bringing together local farmers, vintage tractor enthusiasts and supporters for a good cause.

The sight of dozens of tractors heading out together made an impressive display as the convoy travelled through the local area.

Organisers said local charities are set to benefit from money raised at the event.

The annual run has become a well-supported fixture in the local calendar, with farming families turning out in force to take part and support the fundraising effort.

For further information, contact Peter Adams at the Begelly Arms on 01834 812601.

Pictures: Malcolm Richards

 

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Community

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival brings village together for colourful celebration

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PONTRHYDFENDIGAID Carnival returned in style on Saturday, with a strong community turnout as villagers, families, children and young people gathered on the Village Green before the procession moved on to Bont Pavilion.

The afternoon was full of colour, music and community spirit, with bunting, balloons, decorated floats and smiling faces helping to create a true village celebration.

Among the highlights were the children’s and young people’s entries, which showed real creativity, confidence and effort. Farmyard scenes, animal costumes, a Noah’s Ark-themed float and brightly decorated tableaux all helped bring the carnival to life.

Organisers praised the work that had gone into the displays, competitions and activities, with many families clearly spending hours preparing costumes, props and entries.

The carnival programme featured a wide range of competitions, including floats and tableaux, children’s age-group entries, adverts, pairs, “anything on wheels” and the ever-popular welly throwing competition.

The mix of Welsh and English throughout the event reflected the strong local identity of Pontrhydfendigaid and the importance of keeping village traditions alive for the next generation.

Thanks were also paid to the organisers, volunteers, presidents, compères, families and all those who gave their time behind the scenes. Events of this kind take a great deal of work, and the turnout showed how much the carnival continues to mean to the community.

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival 2026 proved to be a joyful reminder of what can be achieved when a village comes together.

Photographs and report by Jeremy Rundle

 

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