Communities across Carmarthenshire turned out in force as the county welcomed the King’s Baton Relay as part of the build-up to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
CARMARTHENSHIRE County Council hosted the relay on Saturday (June 20), with the Baton travelling through six locations across the county as athletes, volunteers, schoolchildren and residents joined in celebrations marking its official UK journey.
The day showcased Carmarthenshire’s sporting talent, community spirit and commitment to active lifestyles, with a packed programme of activities and demonstrations representing all ten Commonwealth Games sports.
The relay began at Canolfan Pentre Awel in Llanelli, where visitors were treated to displays in netball, swimming, boxing and artistic gymnastics, before the Baton moved on to Llanelli Weightlifting Academy and Amman Valley Leisure Centre.
From there, the route continued to Carmarthen Leisure Centre and Bro Myrddin Indoor Bowls Club, before concluding at Carmarthen Velodrome, where cycling took centre stage in the final leg of the event.
Baton Bearers from across Carmarthenshire played a key role throughout the day, including young people, volunteers, local athletes and community champions, reflecting the county’s strong sporting and community networks.
The event also marked the launch of Carmarthenshire’s “Design a Baton” schools competition, encouraging young people to celebrate creativity and cultural identity as part of the wider Commonwealth Games festivities. Finalists in the competition are Lilly Mai, Robyn and Lois, all from Ysgol Llandeilo.
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure and Tourism, Cllr Hazel Evans, said: “We are proud to have hosted the King’s Baton Relay here in Carmarthenshire.
“The event brought communities together and provided an opportunity to showcase the range of sporting facilities and opportunities available across the county.
“It has helped highlight the importance of physical activity and community participation, while offering residents the chance to be part of a significant national event.”
The King’s Baton Relay forms part of the countdown to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, when all 74 Batons from across the Commonwealth will be reunited at the Opening Ceremony.
Carmarthenshire County Council thanked its partners, volunteers, local organisations and residents for helping to deliver the event.
