Category sponsored by: Gavin Griffiths Group

*WINNER*

Emma Finucane (Cycling)

Emma’s success in the past year has been achieved at the very highest level. In August 2023, Emma won the Women’s Elite World Championships to become the UCI World Sprint Champion, breaking the world record at sea level in the process!

At just the age of twenty, Emma has represented Great Britain at various events around the world with tremendous success, also adding World Elite Team Sprint silver to her individual gold and winning all four sprint disciplines at the National Sprint Championships in Newport.

*RUNNER-UP*

Jamie Stiles (Short Mat Bowls)

In March 2023, Jamie was selected to represent Wales at the World Short Mat Bowls Championships in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Taking part in the ‘Triples’ competition, despite stiff competition, Jamie and his partners came out on top to win the title, becoming World Short Mat Bowls Champions - only the fifth Welsh ‘Triple’ to win the title since its inaugural event in 1989.

*RUNNER-UP*

Amy Cole (Cycling)

Amy has been cycling competitively for over 10 years and has progressed through national performance pathways onto the international stage, initially as a solo performer and now also as a tandem pilot for a visually impaired rider.

Following a serious illness it was uncertain if Amy would be able to return to the sport, but through sheer grit and determination she made her come-back at the 2023 UCI Para-Track Cycling World Championships in Glasgow, winning gold in the Tandem Mixed Team Sprint and a bronze medal in the 1km Time Trial Tandem event.

Category sponsored by: Coal Bunker Glamping Pods

*WINNER*

Rory Gravelle (Cycling)

Rory aged 16 from Carmarthen competes in road cycling and represented Great Britain at the European Youth Olympics in Slovenia in July 2023 where he finished 11th in the Time Trial event.

Rory annihilated the field throughout the 2023 season, even lapping the entire field in Loughborough’s round of the National Series - which for a national event is mind blowing.

In the Welsh National Youth Circuit Series Rory won 3 out of 4 stages in his first year as U16's rider taking the overall National U16's Youth A Title.

Rory is ranked 7th in Great British through his hard work and dedication he has signed for AG2R Citroen Under 18 development team in France for the 2024 season, stepping into one of the highest-level teams in the world.

*RUNNER-UP*

Finley Bruce (Athletics)

Finley is part of the Welsh Academy for triathlon and was one of 4 selected for the UK school games finals in 2022 at Loughborough University.

In 2023 he had a very successful British Super Series finishing 20th overall in the Youth A Super Series. Also with a 4th place finish in Barry & 5th in Llandudno, this ranked him 1st in the youth open category in the Welsh Super Series 2023.

In addition to Triathlon, Finley also competes in Athletics and is the Welsh Mountain Running Champion. In 2023 Finley finished 5th in the British and Irish Mountain Championship in Scotland, as well as finishing 25th in Under 18 international world championships mountain Race in Annecy France.

Other achievements include 7th in the Schools International Athletics Board (SIAB) 3000m track event in Belfast and 4th in English Athletics Championship in the Steeplechase.

*RUNNER-UP*

Gwion Williams (Canoe Slalom)

Gwion Williams, a pupil at Bro Myrddin School in Carmarthen competes in the slalom canoe event.

In June 2023, Gwion competed in the European Canoe Association Junior slalom cup in Slovakia where he fought off a field of 60 competitors to finish 2nd overall, a fantastic achievement for the 16 year old from Carmarthen.

Gwion manages his time well to fit in his school studies around his training and competing and has a bright future representing Wales and Great Britain in Canoe Slalom.

Category sponsored by: Coleg Sir Gar

*WINNER*

Sophie Locking (Mounted Games)

Sophie, aged 15 and a member of the Amman Valley Pony Club, achieved remarkable success in 2023. She not only secured victories in the British and European Championships but became World champion in France in August 2023, riding a pony she trained from a novice.

Sophie's unprecedented triple-title win in the same year astounded the mounted games community, making her the first rider to hold all three titles simultaneously. Her exceptional performances, including representing Wales twice at the Royal Windsor horse show, have garnered attention.

Notably, Sophie has been nominated for a spot on the 2024 Great Britain team, showcasing her outstanding talent in equestrian sports.

*RUNNER-UP*

Maddy Harper (Kickboxing)

At just 14 years old, Maddy, a student at Strade School and a member of the Sharks Kickboxing Club, has achieved remarkable success this year. She holds the titles of Welsh Open, British Open, and European Open Champion in continuous kickboxing, an impressive feat considering she has only been practicing the sport for 18 months.

Kickboxing has played a transformative role in Maddy's life, serving as a literal lifesaver. Beyond her personal accomplishments and committment to her own training sessions, Maddy manages to find time to coach children younger than her three times a week.

*RUNNER-UP*

Isabella Morgan (Tennis)

Isabella, a 12-year-old student at Coedcae School and a member of the Llanelli Tennis and Squash Club, has had an impressive journey in the world of tennis. Since September last year, she has explored nine different European countries.

Despite being a year young, she competes in the under-14 category and secured her first international title in Tennis Europe's competition in Belgium August 2023. Starting the year ranked 1108 in Europe, Isabella has made significant strides, currently holding the 461st position and continuing to climb.

Additionally, Isabella showcased her talent by representing South Wales at the National Wimbledon Finals held at the iconic Wimbledon venue in August 2023.

Category sponsored by: Enzo's Homes Limited

*WINNER*

Mia Lloyd (Athletics)

Sixteen year old Mia has been a member of Carmarthen and District Harriers for a number of years and regularly trains on the track.

At primary school, Mia was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer which led to her left leg being amputated. Despite this life changing procedure, this didn't stop Mia from taking part in sport which lead her to take up wheelchair athletics.

This year, with a new prosthetic let competing in the ambulant discus events, Mia finished 2nd place in the international event for under 20's in Cardiff, 1st at the Welsh Senior Athletics Championships and travelling to Trinidad and Tobago for the Youth Commonwealth Games saw her finish in 4th place, just missing out on a place on the podium. 

*RUNNER-UP*

Llinos Gilmore Jones (Bocce)

A former pupil of Heol Goffa, Llinos loves a challenge and whatever Llinos does she always has a smile on her face. Llinos has been a regular competitor for the Carmarthenshire Special Olympics Team for the last 25 years.

In June his year she was chosen to represent GB at the summer Special Olympic World Games in Berlin where she won two silver medals in the singles and double competitions and also was given the honour to represent the GB team at the closing ceremony, to carry the GB Plaque.

Llinos has also been appointed an Actif Community Ambassador for the Walk Talk and Run group that meets twice a week from Llanelli Leisure Centre.

*RUNNER-UP*

Jimmy Staveley (Judo)

Jimmy Staveley, a 16 year old from Drefach, and despite his disability trains with the mainstream Judo players at Sanshirokwai Judo Club three times per week.

In August 2023, Jimmy represented Team GB in the British Open Adaptive and IV Judo Championships where he gained a silver medal in the 66Kg Category in Level 1.

Jimmy has been selected to be a member of the British Judo Adaptive Team and will be in a training camp with the British Judo Adaptive Team in Japan in April and May 2024.

*WINNER*

Teyan Burt (Swimming)

Teyan is 16 years old and attends Strade school. He is a keen swimmer and is a member of Llanelli Swimming Club in which he has many different roles, such as captain, volunteer, swimmer, coach and timekeeper.

For such a young individual, Teyan volunteers a mammoth 20 hours a week in his swim club as well as focusing on his own swimming which in itself demonstrates how inspirational he is.
Teyan is a qualified level 2 swim teacher and as a trained timekeeper he volunteers in local and in Swim Wales events.

He is a well respected member of the club and his drive and determination is something that has obviously inspired many, and will continue to inspire many more in the years to come.

*RUNNER-UP*

Sion Davies (School Football and Athletics)

A pupil at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, Sion is well respected who has always been eager to help since arriving at the school in 2017. As well as being a Gold Young Sports Ambassador, Sion volunteers on average 3 hours a week in a range of different sports within his school.

Over the last year Sion has helped out in an array of different events such as, National Eisteddfod, transition days and school sports days just to name a few.

Sion can always be relied upon to support and help out in any sports club or event and is a credit to the school.

*RUNNER-UP*

Keira Davies (Netball)

Keira, a pupil at Pontarddulais Comprehensive school is a well thought of member of Dulais Netball Club. Within her club and school Keira will volunteer up to 5 hours a week to help umpire and coach.

Within the last year, she has gained her umpiring C award and has been nominated to help umpire within the Urdd competitions.

Keira inspires like minded young athletes of all ages and abilities, and with her knowledge and understanding of the sport she helps players to grow and gain confidence to take the court and play netball which is extremely inspirational.

Category sponsored by: Communities for Work+

*WINNER*

Laura O'Shea (Rugby)

Laura is described as a valued committee member of Trimsaran Juniors RFC and all-round doer of everything! If something needs doing, Laura will do it.

Laura volunteers around 15 hours every week to ensure training and matches can be played and there are plenty of opportunities for all the children in the community.
To Laura its not just about playing rugby, its about ensuring the children have extra experiences by going on trips, attending events, making friendships and much more.

A great deal of Laura's work goes unnoticed, but without her efforts the Junior section along with substantial benefits for the children and wider community would not exist.

*RUNNER-UP*

Rick Wilson (Football)

Rick is a player and committee member of the ‘seniors’ social football club which play on a Friday Night in Llandeilo.

Through his knowledge and commitment he has been able to secure several grants to improve the volunteer led Tregib Sports facilities which benefits the community by hosting a variety of Sports Club sessions.

If it wasn’t for Ricks hard work on behalf of the sports clubs that use the facilities to ensure it's viability, the future of this wonderful asset would have been in doubt. Rick is a modest guy and without his drive, enthusiasm, and capability the project would never have started, let alone been successful.

*RUNNER-UP*

Charlene Jenkins (Rugby)

Merched Mynydd Mawr is a hub that provides rugby opportunity for girls U7s to U18 from Tumble and Penygroes RFC. In May 2023 Charlene Jenkins was appointed hub leader to oversee all the off-pitch activities.

During this time has developed a positive relationship with other hub leads, local businesses and most importantly the players, parents, potential players and schools. Charlene's role includes anything from ensuring the policies and procedure are up to date, organising fixtures to making hot dogs!

Through Charlene's hard work helped the popularity of the hub has increased in the communities, with new players each week wanting to give rugby a “try”.

Category sponsored by: L&B Hospitality

*WINNER*

Gavin O'Shea (Rugby)

Gavin, serving as the Juniors Chairman at Trimsaran RFC, spearheads an inclusive rugby initiative alongside his wife Laura. Leading as U12 coach, first aider, fundraiser, and fixture secretary, Gavin shapes the club's not-for-profit ethos, offering free rugby for U5s to U11s and developing strong links with local schools.

Despite being the 10th most deprived area in Carmarthenshire, Gavin ensures rugby is accessible to all, providing not only free training but also essentials like boots and meals. Gavin's dedication goes beyond rugby, profoundly impacting children's well-being and development in a deprived area, instilling positive change and creating community orientated residents.

Parent testimonials attest to the life-altering effects on children like overcoming anxiety, positively shaping children's well-being and development in a deprived setting.

*RUNNER-UP*

Ben Holding (Cricket)

Ben, a pillar at Llangennech Cricket Club, brings more than coaching – he instils a robust work ethic, discipline, and sportsmanship with a focus on fun and inclusivity. A role model both on and off the field, he champions respect and teamwork, developing the club's first girls-only team.

His commitment extends to winter training, indoor leagues, and coaching rugby. Under his influence, the club has seen a surge in participation and enthusiasm, coupled with enhanced social media presence.

From a 10-hour Fun Day to meticulous administrative tasks, Ben's dedication ensures player success and community cohesion, including fundraising for a local autistic unit.

*RUNNER-UP*

Lisa Dwerryhouse (Cricket)

Lisa, Captain of the Women's Softball cricket team and Vice Chair at Llandeilo Cricket Club, is a dynamic force in Welsh cricket. In just two years, she transformed the women's team into formidable contenders, securing 3rd and 2nd place in winter and summer leagues.

Lisa's dedication extends to coaching the U13's and assisting the U11's, fostering a thriving junior section. As the first woman Vice Chairman in the club's history, she spearheads social media, quadrupling it's reach.

Lisa's cricket journey, from a newcomer to a Cricket Wales Inspired to Play Award winner, reflects her unwavering passion and commitment.

*WINNER*

Shelley Pace (Gymnastics)

Shelley, head coach at Carmarthenshire School of Gymnastics within the Tumbling discipline, oversees the Development Squad, identifying natural talent at all ages.

Gymnasts, under Shelley's guidance consistently achieve high standards at National and International events with 20 in the Welsh South Area Development Tumbling Squad, 10 in the Welsh National Development Tumbling Squad and 6 in the Welsh Home Nations Tumbling Squad.

In addition to this Shelley is also a mentor to many clubs in South Wales developing their coaching skills and guiding them through their level 1 and other coaching awards, alongside working towards her level 5 in coaching and revalidating her judging qualifications.

*RUNNER-UP*

Matt Blue (Triathlon)

Matt Blue, a Fire Fighter from Carmarthen is a Triathlon Coach in Carmarthen Triathlon club.

With an elite sporting background himself, he understands what it takes to achieve the highest possible success and through his planning and supportive coaching style, he encourages athletes to push their boundaries to achieve personal bests during training and events.

Matt has managed to increase the clubs’ participation at races and events across Wales, with over 10 athletes achieving podiums during the season which has helped raise the club's profile as well as the sport of Triathlon.

*RUNNER-UP*

Euros Evans (Rugby)

Euros inspires the next generation of coaches, players, and peers with meticulous attention to detail, experience, and true mastery. He lacks ego and oozes expertise.

He has made the transition from professional player to expert coach over the years which enables him to gain a lot of knowledge to enhance his coaching skills.

Over the last 5 years, Euros has helped Llandovery RFC climb to the top 3 position within the Welsh Premiership but this year the team went ahead and took the Indigo - Welsh Premiership title for the 2022/2023 season is an amazing achievement.

Category sponsored by: TAD Builders

*WINNER*

Amman Valley Pony Club

Amman Valley Pony Club U15 Team compete in mounted games. The team were firstly successful in the South Wales Regional competition, becoming Area Champions by beating the other 8 teams. Winning their Regional Championships enabled them to qualify for the South of Britain Round in Somerset against 14 other teams.

Again, the team showed great strength and after a long series of heats and finals they smashed through to the final round and due to the points they had achieved were declared winners even before the final race was run. This achievement meant the team had qualified for the British finals, where only the top 6 teams in the UK can compete and Amman Valley secured their place against 330 other pony clubs from across the country.

The team were also crowned Welsh Champions by winning the Royal Welsh Mounted Games pony club championships in Builth Wells in July 2023.

*RUNNER-UP*

Tim Pel Rwyd o dan 16 Ysgol Y Strade

Ysgol y Strade’s U16 Netball team have worked hard to succeed in several competitions. During the last two years, the girls haven’t lost a single game of netball. The team became champions of the Llanelli league before moving on to win competitions at National level.

After winning the regional Ann Smart County competition, the team went on to win the Ann Smart Wales Tournament in Deeside. In addition to winning, one of the players, Ffion Tovey, was named as the Player of the Tournament.

They have shown excellent team work and have been rewarded by becoming Welsh Champions.

*RUNNER-UP*

Ysgol Bro Dinefwr Under 14 Rugby Team

Ysgol Bro Dinefwr girls u14 rugby team have had a successful year. At regional level they became champions when competing in the U14s Scarlets 7s Championship.

Competing in the Welsh Schools Girls Rugby Championship they beat all 30 schools to reach the final in the Principality stadium. The girls went on to win the final and became National Champions. This is an excellent achievement as only a few of the girls play club rugby outside of school.

On top of this, 2 of the squad members have been chosen to be part of the BGC squad for the next season.

Category sponsored by: Alliance Leisure

*WINNER*

Llandovery RFC

Llandovery RFC’s 1st team had a triumphant 2022-23 season where they became the Champions of the Indigo Premiership. The players and coaches’ continued development, dedication and hard work has played a vital part in their success over the past few seasons.

The Indigo Premiership is a league made up of 12 teams that geographically spread across the whole of Wales. It is the highest league that any team in Wales can be a part of, excluding the four professional regions.

There are approximately 300 rugby teams within Wales that compete in different competitions and leagues. This really puts into perspective how much of a big achievement it is to be named the best rugby team in Wales.

*RUNNER-UP*

Whitland RFC Ladies

Founded in 2008, Whitland RFC Ladies are a team that have gone from strength to strength. They have grown in numbers and now have an under 18’s and under 15’s girls team as well as a senior team.

The senior Ladies team had a fantastic 2022-23 season, becoming the winners of the Championship and gaining promotion to the Premiership.

The pinnacle of their season was playing at the Principality Stadium, where they won the plate thanks to a winning score in the dying moments of the match in a nail biting encounter against Burry Port.

*RUNNER-UP*

Llanelli Warriors RFC

Llanelli Warriors led the way as the leading mixed ability, inclusive rugby team of the 2022-23 season. They have managed once again to accumulate the most points for the most games played and most games won on a Global stage.

They continue to inspire other mixed ability teams across the world, in rugby and other sports. Whilst renown on an international level, the Warriors have continued to operate at a local and national level which brought them success closer to home, winning the WRU mixed ability showcase match and silverware in the form of the Lewi Cup, Anniversary Cup and DPL Foundation Cup.

Category sponsored by: Sport Wales

*WINNER*

Ammanford AFC

This year once again, Ammanford AFC has maintained it's Platinum Accreditation status for a third year running for it's commitment to continuously improve and develop.

The club provides an inclusive environment for players, coaches and volunteers to learn and progress with a strong pathway for development across all age groups for male and females.

In October 2022, the club became the first Carmarthenshire club to be awarded the Gold INSPORT Disability Sport Wales. This award was given in recognition of the opportunities the club provides for individuals with a disability. They are only the second football club in Wales to achieve this accreditation and have set a precedent for others to follow.

*RUNNER-UP*

Carmarthen Triathlon Club

Carmarthen Triathlon club is an inclusive club, where they welcome members from all ages and abilities.

The club have a family feel, where all members are encouraged to achieve their potential, regardless of their ability and experience. The dedicated coaches support a range of athletes from those starting out with a 5k run to those completing the Ironman.

This approach has lead to an increase in membership which is supported by a growing and strong core of volunteers and coaches.

*RUNNER-UP*

Carmarthen Rowing Club

The club provides an opportunity for people of all ages to participate in rowing in a fun and enjoyable setting. During the last year, membership has increased by 25% through raising awareness in the local community and offering 'give it a go' sessions for those that have not tried rowing before.

2 junior members are part of the committee, and junior members also get involved with fundraising opportunities.

Coaches have the opportunity to develop and progress and the club hosts regular meetings with all volunteers where learning is shared.

Category sponsored by: Castell Howell

*RECOGNISED*

Roy Bergiers (Rugby)

Roy's involvement in sport spans a number of decades, from his rugby playing days with Llanelli RFC, Wales and of course the British Lions in the 70s to nowadays, where he continues to be actively involved in sport in various roles within different local clubs and organisations.

Since retiring from playing, Roy has made a huge contribution as president of Carmarthen & District Schoolboys where his dedication and commitment sees him tirelessly supporting the players of various teams; organising training sessions, games, procuring kit, and arrange trips to the Principality Stadium.
Roy's primary goal is to ensure that the players enjoy a fantastic rugby experience and his overwhelming passion for the game and the well-being of the players is remarkable.

He generously invests a significant amount of his time in a sport that once paved the way for his successful career, and inspires the next generation as a role model of a player and a coach.

*RECOGNISED*

Del Phillips (Boxing)

Del's boxing journey began as a child, receiving gloves that sparked a lifelong passion. In 1964, he joined Tumble Boxing Club and competed in 7 amateur contests, reaching the Welsh Amateur Boxing Championships in 1969. His first professional fight was at Coney Beach Porthcawl on the same bill as Howard Winstone’s WBC Featherweight Bout on 24th July 1968.

Del's pro career included 24 fights, earning him recognition as Best Young Welsh Boxer of 1968/69. Injuries led to retirement, but his legacy continued through coaching and voluntary work at Trostre Boxing Club.

Returning to Trostre Boxing Club in 1993, Del took on various roles, including Secretary and multifaceted responsibilities such as Cornerman, Competition Secretary, Reporter, and overseeing Grant Applications with his efforts contributing to a comprehensive refurbishment of the gym.  Recognized for his dedication, Del received Life Membership from the Welsh Amateur Boxing Association in 2022.

*RECOGNISED*

Bruce Morgan (Athletics)

Bruce joined Llanelli Athletic Club in 1978, becoming a vital member of the Track & Field team in 1979. Between 1987 and 1993, he contributed significantly after the Club re-entered the Welsh League. Transitioning from a competitor to a Field Official, Bruce became a key figure in the Club's Officials team, officiating in Welsh and Regional Championships.

He qualified as a Club Coach in the 1990s, focusing on coaching senior endurance athletes. Bruce, a Gwent Cross Country League team stalwart, participated in 70 matches from 1979 to 2023. A committed committee member, he served as Chairman from 2002 to 2008 and received Life Membership in 2015. In 2013, Bruce embraced Parkrun, co-establishing the Llanelli Coast Parkrun in 2016.

Currently co-race director of Sandy Water Parkrun, he has completed 180 parkruns and volunteered over 300 times, contributing to the well-being of hundreds of participants each week. As of November 2023, Bruce remains a highly respected and valued member of the Parkrun team.

*RECOGNISED*

Vaughan Thomas (Cricket)

For more than 40 years, Vaughan has been an integral part of the club, initially playing a pivotal role in the side's triumph in the South Wales League and subsequent promotion to the Premiership.

Over the past 25 years, he has been actively involved in nurturing young talent and has held positions such as Club Secretary, Club Chairman, and Caretaker Manager for the last decade. Vaughan's dedication extends to the development of a 'Girls Cricket' pathway, spanning from grassroots to Elite level, for over 5 years.

From managing bar duties to organisng Dynamos and All Stars cricket across age groups and coordinating fixtures for the 2nd and 1st teams, Vaughan remains deeply involved.