Fuelling Dreams: The next generation of sporting stars celebrated at Halo Sport Foundation Awards
Monday 08 June 2026
The future of local sport took centre stage recently as Bridgend County Borough's finest athletes gathered for the launch of the newly refreshed Halo Sport Foundation, delivered in partnership between Halo Leisure and Bridgend County Borough Council on Wednesday 3 June 2026.
The event celebrated 110 talented athletes from across the county borough, representing more than 30 different sporting disciplines, including surfing, athletics, surf lifesaving, para-table tennis, gymnastics, boxing, BMX and ice hockey. Selected for their commitment, achievements and competitive success, the recipients represent the next generation of sporting talent from Bridgend.
The Halo Sport Foundation reflects a shared commitment from Halo Leisure and Bridgend County Borough Council to support athletes, remove barriers to participation and create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to achieve their sporting ambitions.
Recognising that financial pressures can often prevent talented athletes from progressing, the Foundation provides vital support through athlete grants and free access to training facilities, helping individuals continue their sporting journey while remaining connected to their local communities.
The Foundation is also part of a wider ambition to strengthen grassroots sport across Bridgend County Borough. By supporting aspiring athletes and promoting participation at every level, the partnership aims to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to take part in sport and physical activity, whether their goal is to represent their local club, compete for Wales or Great Britain, improve their health and wellbeing, or simply enjoy being active.
This year's Foundation is championed by an inspiring team of Sports Ambassadors, all with strong connections to Bridgend County Borough:
• Helen Jenkins MBE – Olympian and two-time World Champion Triathlete
• Neil Robinson MBE – Paralympic Champion and GB Table Tennis Coach
• Rebecca Rowe – Multi-Sport International Athlete and Polar Explorer
• Ellie McCloy – World Champion Surf Life Saver
• Rebecca Sutton – GB and Wales International Swimmer
• Celyn Emanuel – Welsh International Netball Player
The ambassadors shared their personal journeys to success and highlighted the important role that local clubs, coaches, volunteers, families and community facilities played in helping them achieve their goals.
The evening also reinforced the importance of continuing to invest in opportunities that support participation, talent development and community wellbeing. Through strong partnership working, Halo Leisure and Bridgend County Borough Council remain committed to creating pathways that help residents achieve their potential, regardless of age, ability or background.
Applications for the 2027 Halo Sport Foundation (part of GLL Sport Foundation Athlete Support Programme) , along with information about eligibility and training opportunities, can be found by visiting www.halosportfoundation.org.uk.
We are proud to support the Halo Sport Foundation and the positive impact it continues to have on athletes across Bridgend County Borough. By helping talented individuals access the facilities and support they need to develop, the Foundation is investing not only in sporting achievement but also in the health, wellbeing and aspirations of our communities. I’d like to congratulate all the recipients and look forward to following their future successes.
Every single one of these athletes possess grit and passion, and it is a privilege to give them free access to Halo facilities to help them on their way to sporting success. As a registered charity, our goal isn't just to provide facilities—it's to build a supportive community where local talent knows that we believe in them, we back them, and we can’t wait to see how far they will go.