Sporting Stars - No 6 - Chris O Sullivan
Chris O’Sullivan - a born winner if ever there was one!
Chris O’Sullivan is arguably one of the best-known footballers of his era in Pembrokeshire who has a host of medals with Goodwick United but also played Welsh Premier League Football at Haverfordwest County, where he was also player/manager and manager.
But Chris always held the dream of promoting fitness and well-being and his vision came to fruition when he finally opened his fantastic S7 Sporting Complex in Haverfordwest, where experienced enjoyers of keeping fit are joined by newcomers who want to try their hand at taking part in a range of activities – and all are made equally as welcome.
Has made ‘White Collar Boxing’ achievable for novices - along with brother Wayne
Not content with that achievement, Chris and his brother Wayne, both Welsh ABA Boxing Champions, also introduced ‘White Collar Boxing’ to the county and have so far presented six such events where those who want to try the Noble Art have to attend an eight-week training course before they are allowed into the ring at the Park House Pavilion at Withybush Show Ground.
“We aim to make it a memorable experience and boxers of both sexes must be carefully matched in terms of age and fitness,” Chris told PembrokeshireSport.co.uk, “ because it is their first experience of stepping into a ring for a bout refereed and judged carefully.
“It’s also a big step because of the lights, loud music, big screens and an opponent opposite - and the fact that they are cheered on by upwards of 800 noisy supporters - and with a nice trophy to keep as a memento!”
Another new sporting experience has been a big hit!
Not content with that little lot, the O’Sullivans have also introduced a new concept called ‘S7 Locked In’ as part of the ‘Hyrox’ concept where 230 competitors turned up took take part in a challenge similar to ‘Strongest Man/Woman’ where they test themselves at eight different events, with a one kilometre run in between. Every computer has a chip fitted so that their times are automatically registered and recorded.
A huge number of fans turned up, there were food outlets and fun things for children to do - and there is every chance that this novel idea will grow into something even bigger with Chris and Wayne O’Sullivan at the forefront!
Consistent performances at a high level
Going back to his footballing days, Chris has an unrivalled record in his spells at Swansea Citty and Haverfordwest County, where he was a key midfield player for many years and then became a player manager and then sole boss - no mean feat for a local boy!
His record at Goodwick United includes winning five league titles, four Senior Cup successes, and two West Wales Cup Final victories - and in one memorable season the team grabbed no fewer than SIX TROPHIES as they completed the coveted treble of lead, Senior and West Wales Cups alongside more local trophies like the Eddie Merry Cup at neighbours Fishguard Sports, plus the John Bayley and Jubilee Cups!
Still winning in over 40s football – and with Welsh selection as a bonus
Chris stepped down as Goodwick United boss as he handed the reins to Nigel Delaney - but he took on a fresh challenge when he joined the Llanelli Over 40s team that includes former Swansea City stars Lee Trundle, Leon Britton and Angel Rangel. They were undefeated last season as they played on the 4G pitch at Penrhos, in Llanelli and won their league against the likes of Caerleon, Rockspur, Swansea, Cardiff Curries and Bridgend Street, Cardiff.
It means lots of travel to training and matches for Chris but his performances have earned him selection for the Wales Over 40s team, who recently beat the South Wales Over 35s by 63, with Chris given two ‘assists’ on a promising debut!
Chris O’Sullivan really is an asset to keeping fit and mental health well-being and we at PembrokeshireSport.co.uk were delighted to present him with one of our new ‘Sporting Stars’ badges in recognition of his contribution!