Team Wales heroes welcomed home after Commonwealth Games success

Nation.Cymru staff

Team Wales athletes have been welcomed home following a Commonwealth Games campaign which saw the nation win 31 medals.

Athletes and para-athletes gathered at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay on Thursday, August 6, for a public reception following their return from the Games in Glasgow.

Welsh competitors finished the Games with nine gold, 10 silver and 12 bronze medals across a range of sports.

Athletes represented Wales across 10 sports, with medals won in swimming, cycling, athletics, boxing, gymnastics, weightlifting and bowls.

Glasgow also saw a record number of para-athletes compete for Team Wales at a Commonwealth Games.

First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth congratulated the athletes and the wider Team Wales delegation during the homecoming event.

He said: “Team Wales has once again shown the world what our nation is capable of. Every athlete who pulled on that Wales jersey in Glasgow did so with pride and distinction, and I want to congratulate each and every one of them.

“Success at these Games cannot be measured in medals alone. Every athlete who achieved a personal best, who competed for the first time on the international stage, or who overcame setbacks to represent Wales, has done our country proud.

“I also want to thank the coaches, support staff, officials, volunteers and families for their dedication and commitment. This contribution, often unseen, is every bit as important.

“Team Wales has once again demonstrated the talent, ambition and determination that exists across Welsh sport, and I know their achievements will inspire the next generation.”

Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport Heledd Fychan said the performances had been a source of “huge national pride”.

She said: “What a Games for Team Wales. To see our athletes and para-athletes compete with such skill, heart and determination has been a source of huge national pride.

“Beyond the medals, what strikes me most is the inspirational role these athletes play. They show young people across Wales what is possible when talent is matched with hard work and support, and I hope their achievements encourage more of us to take up sport in our own communities. You have every reason to be proud.

“This Welsh Government is committed to ensuring that everyone in Wales, whatever their age or background, can enjoy the benefits of sport throughout their lives. Days like today remind us why that commitment matters so much.”

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