In the build up to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the King’s Baton Relay landed in Wales and spent 6 days (19–24 June) going round the nation from south to north ensuring communities across Wales can take part in this historic celebration.

Each of the 74 nations and territories across the Commonwealth has its own unique Baton, with a different word featured on each one. Together, these 74 words will form a message that will be read by His Majesty The King at the Opening Ceremony. Wales’s word was COMMUNITY — a fitting reflection of the nation’s spirit.

Some of our weightlifting community, including both present and former athletes as well as one of our licensed clubs were involved in different stages of the King’s Baton Relay which was brilliant to see.

On Day 1 the Baton started its journey at Barry Island before going on to Cardiff Metropolitan University for the official Team Wales media event. Here, Chef de Mission Gethin Jones formally welcomed selected athletes into the team, followed by a dedicated media opportunity for press to interview athletes ahead of the Games. The Baton then head over to Celtic Manor Resort in Newport in the afternoon where along with all the other Glasgow 2026 sports we hosted a taster weightlifting session as part of the Team Wales mini sports festival. Delivered by former Commonwealth Games athlete, Christie Marie Williams, local school children had the chance to try out weightlifting and get an introductory lesson in the basics of the sport. A great opportunity for us to join in the celebrations and inspire the next generation.

Llanelli Weightlifting Academy, a licensed Weightlifting Wales club, was honoured to be selected as one of the official stops on day 2 of the King's Baton Relay as it travelled through Carmarthenshire on its journey towards the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. Some of the club members also got the privilege of being baton bearers, recognising their dedication to the sport and their contribution to the local community. As the baton was carried over to the club by the selected athletes, other members of the club took part in a special training session in welcoming the Baton on its arrival. Photo opportunities with the media present took place during this occasion.

Llanelli Weightlifting Academy has become a leading hub for weightlifting in Wales, supporting athletes from grassroots participation through to international level selection, whilst hosting many club competitions.Their involvement in this relay highlighted the important role licensed clubs play in developing athletes and inspiring the next generation.

And finally, on the Anglesey leg of the King’s Baton Relay a glorious day occurred in which two of our former gold medal winning athletes from the Commonwealth Games carried the baton on the final day of the Welsh leg.

First up to carry the baton was Ray Williams (Edinburgh 1986 gold medalist) who led the ceremonial handover of the baton from its Rib Ride over the Menai Strait. Ray then handed the baton over to Gareth Evans (Gold Coast 2018 gold medalist) who carried it beneath the iconic Menai Suspension Bridge.

Two Welsh icons of our sport who will continue to provide a legacy for our next generation of talent.

The Welsh leg of the King’s Baton Relay celebrated sport, community and the values of the Commonwealth, bringing together athletes, coaches, volunteers and local organisations.

Now with less than one month to go till all the action gets underway for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the excitement and anticipation is building.