Welsh Anthem - Millenium Stadium

When I was a boy growing up in the 60's/70's, I used to listen to the BBC broadcasts of 5 Nations rugby matches. Two things stand out in my memory -- the incomparable Bill McLaren broadcasting the match, and the crowd at the old Arms Park in Cardiff, singing the national anthem. In those days -- just massed voices. With the encroachment of the 'professional era' (and lots of related marketing hype), WRU has tended to bringing in over-amped 'stars' to lead the anthem (e.g., Ms. Jenkins, Mr. Terfel). Alas, all for ought, in my book -- nothing -- and I mean nothing -- raises the hairs on your neck like the crowd, singing alone. This is a fair representation of what I remember (true, the new stadium, but one last gasp at the old passion).

• Category

  Sports