Matthew Evans, the visionary founder of the Long Course Weekend and Co-Founder of Ironman Wales in 2011, has been officially inducted into the Wales Sports Hall of Fame – receiving the esteemed Lord Brooke Award for Outstanding Contribution to Welsh Sport.
Evans received the huge honour on Friday (June 6) and in accepting it he spoke about his sporting journey, which has seen him make a transformational impact on Welsh sport.
The award recognises not just his leadership, but how his work has impacted Welsh sport, tourism and the nation’s global identity. His events have generated millions in economic benefit, attracted thousands of visitors to Wales and helped redefine the country as a serious global player in endurance sport.
Beyond the races, his work has introduced a number of initiatives which have now become blueprints across the industry:
- A Legacy Programme for children
- A pioneering volunteer scheme
- Local business partnerships that strengthen host communities and create sustainable impact
Honour ‘truly humbling’ for Evans
Matthew was delighted to receive the honour, admitting: “To be inducted into the Wales Sports Hall of Fame with the Lord Brooke Award is truly humbling. The journey began with the birth of Long Course Weekend in 2010 and the arrival of Ironman Wales the following year. Since then, we’ve developed world-class sporting events across Wales and around the globe – a journey made possible only through the support of an incredible team.
“From a government that understood the vision, to a county that helped with the hard yards, to communities that came together to deliver a world-class visitor experience – and a team that disrupted the market and created something truly Welsh and world-class – this has always been about collective belief and effort.”
Long Course Weekend is now one of Wales’ leading sporting exports – with events hosted in New Zealand, Australia, Belgium, Maastricht, Mallorca Holland and Yorkshire all flying the flag for Wales on the international stage and showcasing the country as a destination for challenge, celebration, and community.
Thank you to the athletes
Matthew paid tribute to the athletes and their families, who have helped make these market-leading events so special.
“A heartfelt thank you to the athletes who’ve supported us so loyally over the years – and to their loved ones who party, cheer, and make our red-carpet finishes famous across the world. Your passion brings our events to life.”
In closing his acceptance address, Matthew had one special thank you to pass on:
“A final shout out to Scott Powell, who’s been there since we were 16 years old – front row at Llandovery College – and still by my side today (although thankfully, he doesn’t drop the ball anymore!). This one’s for us both, for the team, for the county, and for everyone at Major Events in Welsh Government.”
