The countdown to Glasgow has officially begun as Team Wales unveiled its star-studded 114-strong squad for the Commonwealth Games. With Olympic champions Emma Finucane and Matt Richards leading the charge, this formidable team is set to take on the best of the Commonwealth in 10 different sports from 23 July to 2 August.
A talented mix of seasoned pros and fresh faces makes up the diverse Welsh delegation – 66 female athletes and 48 male – with an age range spanning an incredible 57 years. They'll be going for gold, silver, and bronze across the board, aiming to build on previous successes. And this time around, there's a bigger prize on offer – para-events have been expanded, with 22 para-athletes selected, including Paralympic champion Aled Sion Davies and Commonwealth bronze medallist Harrison Walsh.
In artistic gymnastics, World Championship silver medallist Ruby Evans is set to shine in her Commonwealth Games debut after taking home the all-around title at the British Championships. She's joined by twin sisters Abigail and Emily Roper, both making their first appearance on this stage. Athletics sees a special return for 1500m runner Jake Heyward, while Adele Nicoll will be trading in her bobsleigh suit for a Welsh shot put vest.
Boxing has thrown up some heavyweight contenders, including Commonwealth gold medallist Rosie Eccles, who's gunning for "one last medal" as she takes on the best. Bowls Wales has chosen eight athletes, with Daniel Salmon looking to defend his men's pairs title from four years ago. The netball and 3x3 wheelchair basketball squads are yet to be finalised, but one thing's for sure – this team is packed with ambition.
Gethin Jones, Team Wales' chef de mission, beamed with pride over the selected athletes, saying they represent "the very best of Welsh sport" – dedicated, ambitious, and proud to wear the red jersey. Gareth Davies, Chair of Team Wales, echoed these sentiments, praising the tireless effort behind assembling such a strong team.