Bangor hammer thrower Osian Jones to compete in Commonwealth Games

It his be the 29-year-old’s third Commonwealth Games, having represented Wales at Glasgow 2014 and Gold Coast 2018. He joins a team of 22 talents in Wales’ athletics contingent.

And incredibly the journey began for the Welsh record holder at another Commonwealth Games in Manchester in 2002.

Osian Jones. Photo: Mark Shearman

Osian said: “My parents took me to watch the Games in Manchester. It was the first time I had ever seen an athletics competition and I fell in love with the sport. I knew from that moment that I wanted to be an athlete and represent Wales at the Commonwealth Games.”

After completing a Masters in Pharmacy, Jones moved to Cardiff and started working with five times Commonwealth Games legend Carys Parry. And in 2017, he broke the Welsh record which had stood for 33 years. He became the first Welshman to throw more than 70m.

Osian Jones. Photo: Mark Shearman

The hammer thrower was born in Bangor and was a member of the Menai Track and Field Club:

“My love for the sport meant I dabbled in most events, with the hurdles and hammer being my favourites,” he added.

Welsh Athletics National Coach, Chris Jones said: “Welsh athletes faced the toughest ever selection criteria for Birmingham 2022, so I am delighted to confirm 22 athletes will be joining Team Wales from athletics.

“I am proud that the work and dedication of the whole team has been recognised by this selection and I am excited to see how the athletes perform.

Within the team we have a great mix of experienced athletes who will be returning for their second and third Commonwealth Games combined with 11 athletes who will be making their debuts at Birmingham. “

Olivia Breen. Photo: Mark Shearman

Five Para athletes have been selected including three times Paralympic gold medallist Aled Davies.

Commonwealth Games gold medallist Olivia Breen and Paralympian Rhys Jones will also be returning for their third Commonwealth Games.