Swansea Bay Health Charity is hoping its popular Touched by Cancer touch rugby tournament will help it reach a major fundraising milestone when it returns for its second year.
The all‑women’s event, which brings together teams from across Swansea Bay, will take place at Ystradgynlais RFC on Saturday, 8th August.
Last year’s inaugural tournament at Aberavon RFC’s Talbot Athletic Ground raised an impressive £24,000 for the charity’s Going the Extra Mile for Cancer appeal. The appeal is now just £20,000 short of its £200,000 target, which will fund improvements to the South West Wales Cancer Centre at Singleton Hospital.
Ladies Teams assemble to Promote the 2026 Tournament to be held at Ystradgynlais RFC
Twenty teams unite for a cause
This year, 20 teams have committed to raising at least £500 each, with all funds going towards refurbishing and enhancing the cancer centre’s outpatient area to create a brighter, more welcoming space for patients and families.
Ystradgynlais RFC’s club secretary, Daniel Holsgrove, said the club was proud to host the 2026 tournament, with many members having personal connections to the cause.
“We are truly honoured to host the Touched by Cancer tournament,” he said. “Sadly, cancer has brought heartache to so many families across our rugby communities. Together with the other participating clubs, we are proud to take on the challenge of raising a substantial amount of money for this life‑changing charity.
“Building on the success of last year’s tournament, we are committed to maintaining the high standards that were set. We look forward to welcoming so many fantastic teams to Ystradgynlais and celebrating the ever‑growing game of women’s touch rugby.”
More than just rugby
While rugby is at the heart of the day, organisers say the event is about much more than sport.
Cathy Stevens, Community Support Charity Officer at Swansea Bay Health Charity, said many of those taking part have been personally affected by cancer.
“Among those attending will be cancer survivors, patients currently receiving treatment, family members, friends and those remembering loved ones they have lost,” she said. “Their stories and experiences are a powerful reminder of why the appeal matters so much to communities across South Wales and beyond.”
The appeal is supported by Kev Johns MBE, who has received care at Singleton Hospital and has long championed improvements to local cancer services. The charity hopes he will be able to attend on the day.
Family fun, entertainment and a fundraising push
Alongside the rugby, the event will feature an all‑day DJ, raffle, auction and a planned early‑evening concert from a surprise rugby‑star band, with further celebrity ambassadors expected to be announced.
Gates open at 10am, with the tournament kicking off at 11am and the final scheduled for 3.15pm. Entry costs £5 for adults, while children go free.
Cathy added: “Whether you come to cheer on your local team, enjoy the atmosphere or support an important cause, everyone is welcome. Together, our local community could help take the Going the Extra Mile for Cancer Appeal over the £200,000 finish line.”
Donations can be made at: https://swanseabayhealthcharity.enthuse.com/20thAnniversary
Related stories
Charity news
Updates on fundraising events and community appeals across Swansea Bay.
Health stories
The latest updates from Swansea Bay’s hospitals, services and health initiatives.
Community events
Local events, activities and stories from across Swansea Bay.
Cancer support and services
Coverage of cancer care, support initiatives and fundraising efforts.
