Getting Families Moving at the Royal Welsh Show

Welsh former international rugby union referee Nigel Owens will be helping families get active this summer as he joins Principality Building Society at the Royal Welsh Show to launch Dylan’s Rural Relay - a new rural challenge designed to get people of all ages together through sport.

Family-friendly activities at the Sports Village

The family-friendly activities, which forms part of Principality’s headline sponsorship of the Sports Village and will be delivered in partnership with Welsh Athletics, have been inspired by the Society’s ongoing support for Team Wales ahead of the Commonwealth games. 

Through Dylan’s Rural Relay, Principality hopes to bring the spirit of Welsh sport to families at the show, encouraging generations to take part in everything from wheelbarrow relays and obstacle challenges to baton races. The goal is to encourage visitors to embrace sport, teamwork, and a little healthy competition while celebrating Wales’ rich sporting and rural traditions.

Dylan, Principality’s mascot, will also be on hand throughout the week to cheer on participants and present medals, creating plenty of opportunities for families to get involved together. 

Nigel Owens on Dylan’s Rural Relay

Nigel Owens said: "The Royal Welsh Show has always been special to me because it brings together the very best of Welsh farming, rural life and our communities. Having spent much of my life both on rugby pitches and on the farm, I know how important teamwork and community spirit are. 

“Dylan's Rural Relay is a brilliant way to get families involved, have a bit of fun, and celebrate everything that's great about Wales. I'm looking forward to seeing families get involved and hopefully inspiring a few future champions along the way."

What visitors can expect

The Sports Village will host activities throughout the Show, giving visitors of all ages the chance to get involved, meet Nigel Owens and celebrate Welsh sport in one of the country’s best-loved settings.  Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet the Principality team, find out more about the Society's support for communities across Wales, and access exclusive savings account vouchers available during the Show. 

Principality’s support for communities across Wales

Iain Mansfield, Chief Executive Officer at Principality Building Society, said: “The Royal Welsh Show is an important event in the of Welsh calendar, showcasing the strength of rural communities and the role they play in contributing to Wales’ wider agricultural economy and prosperity. 
As a customer-owned building society, we’re proud to support an event that brings communities together from across Wales, and gives us a great opportunity to meet with our Members face to face. 
Through our partnerships with Team Wales and Welsh Athletics, we’re proud to support Dylan’s Rural Relay and help more families experience the benefits of sport and activity together. We look forward to welcoming Members and visitors to the Sports Village.”

Welsh Athletics partnership

James Williams, Chief Executive Officer at Welsh Athletics, said: "Welsh Athletics is delighted to be supporting Principality at the Royal Welsh Show. We share a passion to get young people active across Wales, and enjoying the fundamentals of our sport. 
For us it's about ensuring young people enjoy their sport, have a really positive experience and continue that passion for movement throughout their lives”

When Dylan’s Rural Relay takes place

Dylan's Rural Relay will take place during the Royal Welsh Show at the Sports Village on Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 July.