BBC presenter Gethin Jones has written an emotional open letter to the Welsh athletes who competed at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, expressing his pride and gratitude.
Jones served as Chef de Mission for Team Wales during the fortnight-long event, a role he took on with dedication, having studied for a Master’s degree in Sports Directorship to prepare.
Emotional moments and reflections
He was involved in some of the Games' most touching moments, asking Olivia Breen to lead her country and giving Emma Finucane the honour of being flag-bearer for the closing ceremony after her four gold medals.
In his letter, posted on Instagram, Jones asked for time to process the experience, writing: "A more detailed post to come (when I’ve had some time to reflect, get some sleep, and process the most remarkable few weeks)."
Letter to athletes
He congratulated the 113 athletes, saying: "Congratulations to the 113 (M&M you will be back) @team_wales athletes who took on the world in @glasgow_2026. Diolch/thank you for bringing the joy, and the pure exhilaration that only sport seems able to do."
He praised their pride in representing Wales and their conduct, adding: "Don’t ever forget how proud WE are of you."
Jones acknowledged the sacrifices behind their achievements, referencing an interview with Rosie Eccles that "at this level 'there are more failures than success'", but noted that failures are stepping stones.
Games described as 'really special'
Speaking to BBC Radio Wales, the 48-year-old described the fortnight as "really special", having spent two years getting to know the athletes and following their journeys.
He said: "I was feeling every punch, every stroke in the pool, whatever it might be, because I knew what they'd done to get there."
