Former Welsh international footballer Jess Fishlock made headlines as she carried the torch at the iconic Nos Galan races in Mountain Ash on New Year’s Eve. The event, renowned for its festive atmosphere, welcomed around 1,700 runners and drew an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 10,000 spectators.
Fishlock, the most-capped player in Welsh history and the nation’s all-time leading goal scorer, took on the role of this year’s mystery runner, delighting fans and participants alike. Just weeks after her final international match, she became a symbol of inspiration and resilience as she led the races into the town centre.
Celebrating a Record-Breaking Career
With an impressive record of 48 goals for Wales, Fishlock surpassed renowned athletes such as Gareth Bale to claim her place in football history. Her career highlights include winning the Welsh Footballer of the Year award for four consecutive years and again in 2019. Throughout her career, she has played for clubs across three continents, accumulating numerous championship titles.
2024 was a landmark year for Fishlock, as she represented Wales at its first major international tournament, the UEFA Euros. She made history by becoming the first Welsh player to score during a major tournament, adding to her legacy.
According to Cllr Ann Crimmings of the Nos Galan Road Races Committee, the event embodies tradition and sporting inspiration. She expressed her excitement about Fishlock’s participation, stating, “We are all having to pinch ourselves watching the legendary Jess Fishlock MBE run into our town with the Nos Galan torch held aloft.” Crimmings noted the importance of role models like Fishlock for young aspiring athletes.
A Journey Through Football
Fishlock’s journey in football began at the age of seven with Cardiff City. She made her senior debut at just 15, with former Nos Galan mystery runner Laura McAllister recognizing her talent and fast-tracking her to the senior team. In her first season, she scored 19 goals in 23 matches, propelling Cardiff City to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
In 2008, Fishlock became the first overseas player to join the top women’s team in the Netherlands, securing back-to-back league titles. After returning to the UK, she signed with Bristol, where she earned accolades such as Club Player of the Year and Fans’ Player of the Year in 2011.
Fishlock’s international career began when she debuted for the Wales Under-19 squad at 16, eventually joining the senior team in 2006. In 2017, she became the first Welsh player to earn 100 caps, a milestone she followed with her 150th cap in 2024. Her final appearance for Wales was against Australia in October 2024.
Beyond the Pitch
Apart from her impressive athletic achievements, Fishlock has also gained recognition for her advocacy work, particularly in raising awareness against homophobia in sports. She has openly discussed her experiences as a gay athlete, contributing to her being awarded an MBE in 2018 for her services to women’s football and the LGBT community.
Fishlock is married to former Seattle Reign player Tziarra King, and together they continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. As the Nos Galan races celebrated their rich history, Fishlock’s participation reinforced the event’s legacy and the enduring impact of sporting figures on communities.
The Nos Galan races not only honour the legendary Guto Nyth Bran but also serve as a testament to the vision of its founder, the late Bernard Baldwin MBE. As the event continues to grow in popularity, it showcases the best of the sporting world, fostering a spirit of competition and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.
