Exceptional Sporting Talent Honoured at 73rd Brin Isaac Awards

The 73rd Annual Brin Isaac Memorial Fund Presentation Dinner took place on December 3rd at the Diplomat Hotel in Llanelli, showcasing the remarkable achievements of local athletes across various sports. Featured speaker Dr. Jamie Roberts, a former Wales and British & Irish Lions Test rugby player, joined a large audience celebrating talent after a lavish three-course meal, enriched by entertainment from comedian Scott Bennett.

Solicitor Robert Lewis honoured awardees providing a detailed background history on all the winners highlighting their commendable accomplishments.

He began by acknowledging Sophie Locking, who has excelled in equestrian mounted games, being the first to clinch the triple crown of World, European, and British championships, all while training her own pony.

Next, he honoured William Buckingham from the sport of judo, recognising his numerous titles including the Commonwealth Junior Champion and his impressive performances at national and international levels.
Darcy Coslett, a rising star in athletics, was celebrated for breaking Welsh records in the 300m and contributing to a new relay record in the 4x400m.

Lewis also paid tribute to Mr. Tony James for his decades of dedicated service to Llangennech RFC and to Mr. Duncan Kinnear for his invaluable contributions to judo, nurturing countless athletes over decades.

Finally, he recognised Iwan Rees as the Brin Isaac Sportsman of the Year for his record-breaking achievements in over 50’s cricket, including his leadership and remarkable performance that has etched his name in Llanelli’s cricket history.

Presenting the Llanelli Boys Grammar School Old Boys Association bursary, local businessman Paul Oram honoured young athlete Darcy Coslett from Llanelli Athletics Club and Bryngwyn School, who has made waves in Welsh athletics by breaking several records. At just 15 years old, Darcy set a new Welsh under 17s 300m record with a time of 38.22 seconds and has since ranked 3rd in the world for under 18s in the event. Her summer achievements include winning the British Schools under 17s 300m and a silver medal at the UK under 17s Open Championships. Additionally, she helped the Welsh under 20 women’s 4X400m relay team set a new age group record. Recognising the dedication younger athletes need to succeed, the Brin Isaac Memorial Fund has launched a ‘Sporting Talent Programme Bursary’, offering up to £250 to athletes under 20 to help offset training costs; applications are due by December 31st each year.

The Brin Isaac Memorial Fund continues to honour the legacy of its namesake, who understood the dedication required to achieve sporting greatness. The fund supports young athletes striving for excellence, with the prestigious Brin Isaac Trophy awarded to outstanding individuals since its inception. Notable past winners include D.Onllwyn Brace (1960), Delme Thomas (1966), Terry Griffiths (1976), and more recent champions such as Tennessee Randall (2021) and Emma Finucane (2023). The list highlights the impressive talent nurtured through this initiative, reinforcing the importance of commitment in sports.

​To go towards supporting the ever increasing costs associated with training and competing the charity offers a ‘Sporting Talent Programme Bursary’ for all athletes up to 20 years of age.

Athletes are entitled to apply for up to £250 bursary, with the closing date 31st December each year.
Applications will be reviewed during the month of January each year and successful applicants contacted before St.David’s Day.