Two world records as Urdd marks 100 years
YOUTH movement Urdd Gobaith Cymru has succeeded in breaking two world records as part of its centenary celebrations.
More than 95,000 children and adults from across Wales and beyond took part in the event online yesterday.
The biggest party in the organisation’s history, broadcast live on BBC Radio Wales and Radio Cymru, was held in the company of S4C’s Stwnsh Sadwrn presenters, mascot Mistar Urdd and musician Mei Gwynedd, as well as schools across the country.
The movement also invited people to join its attempt to break two Guinness World Records titles by singing together and uploading videos of the iconic song, Hei Mistar Urdd, to Twitter and Facebook in one hour.
The aim of the challenge was to get the highest number of videos of people singing the song to be uploaded on social media between 10.45am and 11.45am, which was achieved with nearly 2,000 videos appearing.
During the day, the movement received support from various wellknown figures such as First Minister Mark Drakeford, Hollywood actor Matthew Rhys and music legend Bonnie Tyler.
Yesterday marked 100 years since Sir Ifan ab Owen Edwards established the Urdd, to give the children and young people of Wales the opportunity to socialise and enjoy through the medium of Welsh.
Since its establishment, over four million children and young people have been involved with the Urdd in various ways.
In response to the day’s success, Siân Lewis, Urdd Gobaith Cymru’s chief executive, said: “I thank everyone who has taken part in our centenary celebrations today and enabled us to reach this special milestone.
“There is no doubt that the Urdd has developed considerably during the century, and the pandemic has forced the Urdd to experiment and lead with new virtual ways.
“The main aim remains, to provide children and young people with wonderful and unique opportunities to enjoy experiences through the medium of Welsh.
“Today has been a day to remember for the Urdd, with the support proving the demand for a bright future for the organisation.”
The centenary celebrations will continue throughout the year, with exciting developments and events, including a £10m investment in the Urdd’s residential centres and the opening of a new environmental residential centre in Pembrokeshire.
Since its establishment, more than four million children and young people have been involved with the Urdd, through socializing, competing, attending sports clubs, enjoying the Urdd’s residential centres, and taking part in humanitarian and international work – all through the medium of Welsh.