THE achievements of one of Wales’ most outstanding sportswomen have been celebrated.

Friends, family and rugby dignitaries gathered at the Marian clubhouse, Dolgellau, to celebrate Elen Evans’ 73 Welsh rugby caps and her long list of achievements in the world of women’s rugby.

Former Dolgellau star Elen was the first woman to score a try at the Millennium Stadium and played in no less than three World Cups.

Amongst the 100 guests present were Dennis Gethin, president of the Welsh Rugby Union, the evening’s MC and former Welsh player Rupert Moon, and Welsh ladies captain Rachel Taylor.

Many of her past teammates made the journey to Meirionnydd to enjoy an evening of recollections and appreciation for what Elen has done for both her club and country over the past 17 years.

But the road to success was not always easy, something Elen was keen to stress on Friday evening.

“I could not have achieved what I have had it not been for friends and especially my family who have supported me all these years,” she said.

Her first competitive game in north Wales rugby was at the age of 16 when she got her mum Catherine, to drive her to Wrexham to play for Dolgellau.

Club coach Justin Kelly sent her on 10 minutes into the second half only to see Elen put away two tries and seal a win for her team. Elen’s first comments after the game were: “I think I like rugby and rugby likes me.”

After that afternoon in Wrexham, Elen went on to play for Wales at Under 19 level and represent Dolgellau, Waterloo, Caernarfon, Scarlets, RGC and gained full international honours in 2004.

Injuries have taken their toll over the years but they did not stop her competing in three world cups.

During her final international year Elen faced the ‘Haka’ for the third time and ensured that Wales automatically qualified for the next World Cup in 2021.

Her final game for Wales was the win against Ireland in Belfast.

Dolgellau chairman and local councillor Peredur Jenkins said: “Elen is such an amazing example to every sportsman and women in the country.”

Elen was recently chosen for the first ladies Barbarians team and played against Munster at Limerick during the autumn.

The sports star is now fully committed to Dolgellau Rugby Club and has been instrumental in re-establishing junior rugby at the club and more recently establishing and coaching the girls team.

“My time on the A470, clocking 800 miles most weeks is finished,” she said.

“I have had an amazing journey in the red jersey of Wales and owe so many thanks to my family, friends, coaches and medical staff who have supported me all these years.”