Dawn Bowden MS, Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, and Chief Whip
I would like to congratulate all the athletes, coaches and staff of Team Wales on their outstanding performance at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Before the Games had even begun there was much to be proud of with this team, one of the most diverse and gender balanced our country has ever produced. Our amazing athletes have won many fans around the globe for their sportsmanship and the positive spirit in which they have competed. They have shown themselves to be the very best of who we are as a nation and it was an absolute honour for me personally to enjoy some of these performances for myself over the past fortnight. I would also like to congratulate Birmingham on being a fantastic and welcoming host city for the Games.
I would like to pay particular tribute to the team captain, Anwen Butten, who has announced her retirement from competing for Wales at major championships following these Games. She has inspired the team to perform to the best of their ability and has led by example. Her contribution to her sport, and to Team Wales over six successive Commonwealth Games, is immeasurable.
The Team’s strong performances have seen us finish eighth overall on the medal table with a total of 28 medals. This fantastic achievement reinforces our credentials as a small nation that punches well above its weight on the global sporting stage.
I look forward very much to the Homecoming Event on Friday 12 August at the Senedd to celebrate their wonderful performances, which I am sure will continue to inspire athletes of all ages and abilities.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.