Talent Cymru

Why set up Talent Cymru?

We set up the Talent Cymru scheme to provide aspiring welsh athletes with everything they need to gain entry onto the UK Sport's Performance Pathway (Olympic and Paralympic sports) or Élite Cymru (non-Olympic sports).

We not only provide financial support for athletes but also a programme of support services, that is agreed in conjunction with the governing body.

Success so far

To date over 150 athletes from 23 different sports are supported and there have been numerous successes at GB, European and world level.

Beijing Paralympic gold medallist Simon Richardson (cycling) was supported through Talent Cymru prior to transferring to the UK Pathway,  six swimmers supported through the scheme have moved up to the UK Pathway and a large number of Talent Cymru athletes will be representing Wales at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.

Are you eligible for Talent Cymru support?

In order for athletes to be considered for a Talent Cymru award they will need to have met/exceeded agreed minimum performance criteria for their chosen sport.

A key performance indicator (KPI) for Sport Wales and NGBs of Olympic and Paralympic sports in Wales is the number of athletes selected onto the UK Pathway and supported/funded by UK Sport and UK NGBs.

In term of non-Olymic sports, further KPI's include World, European, Commonwealth and British Championship medals.

What is covered?

Financial support is provided for agreed additional competitions/training (in addition to that provided by the NGB), equipment and/or travel.

How to apply

Competitors should contact either their governing body or the Élite Cymru unit on (029) 2033 8237 to enquire whether they meet the agreed minimum performance standards.