Rugby Ace Dai Watkins Honoured At Welsh Awards

Dai Sport journalist Terry Phillips attended the Wales Sports Awards evening at Celtic Manor. He looks at award winners.

Former rugby union and rugby league ace Dai Watkins was honoured during the Wales Sports Awards.

Watkins, 75, was presented with a Special Recognition Award, going on stage with close friend Carolyn Hitt.

The former Pontypool and Newport player captained the British and Irish Lions rugby union team and played for the GB league team.

The Carwyn James Young Sportswoman of the Year title was won by Anglesey weightlifter Catrin Jones, while the young sportsman of the year award went to Liverpool and Wales forward Ben Woodburn.

Liverpool and Wales player Woodburn was unable to attend the evening, but was presented with his trophy by manager Jurgen Klopp at his club’s training ground.

The Carwyn James Young Sportswoman of the Year title was won by Anglesey weightlifter Catrin Jones. Photo: Pradip Kotecha
©Sportingwales

Cardiff swimming coach Fateha Ahmed was named Volunteer of the Year, while Hannah Nolan of Llandudno won the Inspiring Young Person of the Year award.

Organisation of the Year went to Disability Sport Wales, while Us Girls won the Sporting Experience of the Year prize.

Team of the Year award went to ice hockey champions Cardiff Devils and Swansea City hero Alan Curtis received a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Caernarfon fell runner Mike Blake was named Unsung Hero and will now represent Wales in the UK final, which will be announced during BBC Sports Personality of the Year on BBC One on December 17 (6.45pm).

Organisation of the Year went to Disability Sport Wales. Photo: Pradip Kotecha
©Sportingwales

Lawrence Conway, Chair of Sport Wales, said: “We received a record number of inspiring nominations for this year’s awards and tonight’s finalists showcase the passion and hard work going on in the communities here in Wales.

“I am proud of all the volunteers, coaches, leaders and organisations who are helping to build a more active and healthier nation, and it was a real honour to see them recognised as the true heroes of Welsh sport.

“Their achievements will no doubt encourage others across the country to get engaged in the community and help shape their Welsh sport of the future.”

Coverage of the Wales Sport Awards 2017 are available on BBC iPlayer for 30 days and will also be shown on the BBC Red Button at 5.30pm on Saturday.