News
Nigel Walker Appointed Chair of Welsh Athletics
22/07/2026 00:00, In Blog /
Welsh Athletics is delighted to announce the appointment of Nigel Walker as Chair of the organisation following the completion of the recruitment process.
The former Olympic and Commonwealth hurdler, and Welsh Rugby International has been on the Board of Welsh Athletics for twelve month serving in the role of Vice Chair but will become Chair following the completion of current Chair Steve Perks term in September.
Competing during a golden period for Welsh hurdlers, Nigel competed at the 1984 Olympics in the 110 Hurdles, going on to compete for Wales at the Commonwealth Games in 1986 and 1990. Following the end of his successful Athletics career, Nigel successfully transitioned to Rugby Union, playing 17 times for Wales, and scoring 12 tries.
Commenting on his appointment, Nigel noted;
I am delighted to have been appointed to become chair of Welsh Athletics when Steve’s term comes to an end. I am looking forward to working with the board and the executive to continue the progress made over the past years.
As the current strategy comes to an end in December, one of the first key tasks will be to finalise a strategy which has the necessary ambition to continue to drive the sport forward while meeting the obligations of our stakeholders and funders.”
Away from the track and rugby field, Nigel has a long and distinguished career in leadership roles, having served as CEO of the English Institute of Sport, Performance Director and Interim CEO of the WRU and most recently Interim CEO of English Basketball. Nigel has also served on the Board of Commonwealth Games England, UK Sport and the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Current Chair of Welsh Athletics, Steve Perks commented on the appointment:
It is with great pleasure that Nigel has been appointed as the new Chair of Welsh Athletics. Nigel's background across a number of sporting areas as well as Athletics is an extremely positive asset for the Board and the sport.
I wish him all the best in his latest undertaking.
A transitional period will now take place, with Nigel expected to start in his new role following the completion of the September Board meeting.