Welsh international footballer Jess Fishlock was revealed as the mystery runner at the iconic Nos Galan races held in Mountain Ash on New Year’s Eve. This annual event attracts thousands, with approximately 1,700 runners participating and around 10,000 spectators cheering them on. Fishlock, who recently concluded her international career, carried the torch to start the race, marking a significant moment in both her career and the event’s history.
Honoring a Sporting Legend
At 38 years old, Fishlock stands as Wales’ most-capped player and all-time leading goal scorer, with 48 goals in international matches. Her accomplishments surpass those of notable Welsh footballers, including Gareth Bale. Fishlock’s selection as this year’s mystery runner is a fitting tribute to her remarkable career, which includes multiple achievements at club and international levels.
She was celebrated for her consistency, winning the Welsh Footballer of the Year award five times between 2011 and 2019, and has played across three continents, securing numerous championships. This year’s Nos Galan event holds special significance, occurring shortly after Fishlock participated in the UEFA Euros, where she became the first Welsh player to score at a major tournament.
Councillor Ann Crimmings of the Nos Galan Road Races Committee expressed excitement about Fishlock’s involvement, 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. She is an inspiration to so many… What a role model she is for them all.” This sentiment reflects the impact Fishlock has had on aspiring athletes, particularly young girls and boys in the community.
A Glimpse into Jess Fishlock’s Career
Fishlock began her football journey at Cardiff City at the age of seven, making her senior debut at just 15 years old. She quickly made a name for herself, scoring 19 goals in her first season and helping the club reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. Her career took her to the Netherlands in 2008, where she became the first overseas player to join the highest women’s team, winning back-to-back league titles.
In 2012, Fishlock continued her success in Australia with Melbourne, followed by a stint with the Seattle Reign in the USA. Her international career began when she joined the Wales Under 19 squad at 16, progressing to the senior team in 2006. In 2017, she made history as the first Welsh player to earn 100 caps, and by 2024, she achieved 150 caps, further solidifying her legacy.
Fishlock’s final international appearance was in October 2024, during a friendly against Australia. Beyond her athletic prowess, she has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and was awarded an MBE in 2018 for her contributions to women’s football and the community. Her partnership with former Seattle Reign player Tziarra King highlights her commitment to both her sport and her activism.
The Nos Galan races, steeped in tradition and history, continue to celebrate the spirit of competition and community. With Fishlock’s participation, the event not only honors a sporting legend but also inspires future generations of athletes. The excitement surrounding this year’s race exemplifies the enduring legacy of the event and its commitment to fostering sporting excellence.
