Powys residents are being encouraged to celebrate Father's Day with a difference this year by bringing their families along to enjoy two special community sporting events in Brecon and the Elan Valley.
The events, part of the King's Baton Relay for this summer's Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, will showcase 22 baton bearers in Brecon and 29 in the Elan Valley. All have been selected to inspire others because of their sporting success, commitment to their communities or their ability to overcome adversity.
In the Elan Valley, spectators will have the opportunity to see headline athletes Adele Nichol (bobsleigh and shot put) and Tim Davies (cycling), while in Brecon, the event will feature Natalie Powell (judo) and Rob Davies (para table tennis).
Brecon Baton Relay:
- Start: 9am, at Brynich Lock, Brecon, LD3 7UY (spectators are asked to gather at the canal basin in Brecon due to a lack of parking, where the relay can be viewed from 10am onwards)
- Finish: 10.30am, at Theatr Brycheiniog
Elan Valley Baton Relay:
- Start: 1pm, at Elan Valley, Rhayader, LD6 5HP (top of first dam, Caban Coch)
- Finish: 2.30pm
Councillor Glyn Preston, Powys County Council's Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys, said:
“These events are a fantastic opportunity to bring our communities together while celebrating both local and international sporting success.
“The fact that they are taking place on Father's Day makes them even more special, and I would encourage residents to come along with their families and be part of this memorable occasion.”
Councillor Raiff Devlin, Cabinet Member for Customers, Digital and Community Services, added:
“We are proud to host such inspiring events here in Powys.
“With so many baton bearers taking part and world-class athletes attending, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
“It's a brilliant way to celebrate Father's Day, by spending time together and supporting our communities.
The relays are being supported by Glandŵr Cymru, Theatr Brycheiniog and Dragonfly Cruises in Brecon, and by Dŵr Cymru and the Elan Valley Visitor Centre in the Elan Valley.
Athlete biographies
Adele Nichol (Bobsleigh/Shot Put)
Adele Nicoll is a talented athlete from Welshpool who has excelled in both bobsleigh and shot put. Most recently, she represented Team GB at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games where she became the first British woman to compete in the Olympic monobob event.
Nicoll has also secured three British Championship titles in shot put and continues to support young athletes through her academy.
Tim Davies (Cycling)
A pioneer of Welsh mountain biking, Tim Davies from Llandrindod Wells represented Wales across multiple disciplines and helped put the sport on the global stage.
Known for his energy, riding style, and even his flamboyant kit, he also mentored countless young riders and was a founding member of the Wales Off Road Academy. His leadership inspired generations and his legacy continues through the riders he guided across Europe. Tim was inducted into the Beicio Cymru Hall of Fame in 2025.
Natalie Powell (Judo)
Natalie Powell from Builth Wells is a Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Olympian who became Wales' most successful judoka. Ranked among the world's best in her category, she also won bronze medals at both World and European Championships, and since retiring has moved into coaching and will manage the Welsh judo team at this summer's games in Glasgow.
In 2017 she became Great Britain's first female world number one, topping the -78kg rankings following a gold medal at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam.
Rob Davies (Para Table Tennis)
Rob Davies from Brecon is a Paralympic gold and silver medallist and five times European singles champion in para table tennis. Representing Great Britain, he has achieved multiple other titles, including a World Championships silver and is widely respected for his determination and achievements in the sport.
He took up para table tennis after suffering a severe spinal injury while playing rugby, when aged just 21.
A full list of baton bearers can be seen online.
