Members of Saundersfoot Rotary Club were out in force once again, helping to ensure the success of two major sporting events that brought excitement and energy to the village, aiding with the clean-up around the locality.

On Friday, September 11, eleven Rotary members joined other volunteer groups to assist as marshals at the Saundersfoot Triathlon, helping participants and spectators enjoy a safe and well-organised event.

The volunteering effort continued on Sunday, September 13, when ten Rotary members teamed up with Saundersfoot Wombles as part of a joint initiative between the Saundersfoot Rotary Environment Team and Saundersfoot Wombles to assist with the Ironman Wales litter clearance operation.

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The Saundersfoor Tri took lace on Friday, September 11. (Activity Wales)

The cycle route through Saundersfoot as always sees competitors passing through a packed village before heading up past St Bride’s (infamously known as ‘Heartbreak Hill’ amongst athletes) through Swallow Tree Woods and Broadfield Hill before continuing towards neighbouring New Hedges. It always makes for a great atmosphere around the locality.

Working alongside Pembrokeshire County Council, the volunteers collected an impressive 47 sacks of bottles, cans and other litter, all of which will be recycled wherever possible.

The volunteers expressed their appreciation to the many spectators and supporters who attended both events.

Ray Wise, President of Saundersfoot Rotary, said “We would like to thank everyone who came along to support the athletes. The cooperation of the crowds and the positive atmosphere throughout the weekend made our job much easier and contributed to the success of both events.

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The short-distance Saundersfoot triathlon has become an event that the village really embraces. (Activity Wales)

“We would like to thank everyone who came along to support the athletes. The cooperation of the crowds and the positive atmosphere throughout the weekend made our job much easier and contributed to the success of both events,” he continued.

He also paid tribute to the remarkable athletes who took part, stating: “The determination, courage and achievements demonstrated by all the competitors were truly inspiring. It was a privilege to witness their efforts and to play a small part in supporting these fantastic events.”

The weekend left a lasting impression on all involved, with Saundersfoot buzzing with activity and community spirit.

The Club was delighted to assist Pembrokeshire County Council with the clean-up operation and to help ensure that the village looked its best following such a memorable sporting weekend.

Members and friends of Saundersfoot Rotary are pictured with supporters of the event on Broadfield Hill, Saundersfoot during the Ironman Wales event.

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Ironman Wales cyclists heading from Saundersfoot to New Hedges (Gareth Davies Photography)

On the Saundersfoot Tri, organisers Activity Wales Events, shared: “What a night! Amazing crowds, brilliant volunteers and of course, we couldn’t do it without our athletes. Thank you for another sellout event.”

Speaking ahead of the event, county councillor for Saundersfoot’s south ward, Cllr Chris Williams remarked: “This short-distance triathlon has become an event that the village really embraces, with music from local hospitality businesses, streets lined with spectators and a fantastic family atmosphere throughout the evening.

“With more than 900 competitors expected, along with thousands of supporters, I’m sure this will once again be a great success and provide an important boost for our local businesses.”