BKT Tires, the leading Off-Highway tire manufacturer, in partnership with the United Rugby Championship (URC), is proud to announce the launch of “Places to Play”, a CSR initiative aimed at developing and growing communities through grassroots rugby in Ireland, Italy and the United Kingdom.
This purpose-led project saw the construction of a multi-purpose, functional fitness area, known as the BKT Power Zone, at Kenfig Hill RFC in South Wales.
The inauguration of the new BKT Power Zone, took place last week, saw the reveal of a bespoke all-weather multi-purpose training space, designed not just to improve the rugby training facilities at Kenfig Hill RFC, but to diversify their offering to residents making the club more inclusive and accessible. This flexible area will serve as a valuable year-round resource for the rugby club and the wider community. It will help Kenfig Hill expand their offering to local schools and other sports teams who need access to a top-class facility.
The opening of this new fitness area at Kenfig Hill RFC is the result of a careful selection process as part of the “Places to Play” initiative, in which BKT and URC joined forces. Following an extensive outreach phase, over thirty competition entries were consolidated to a shortlist of five finalists with eventual winner Kenfig Hill RFC being chosen by a panel made up of Lucia Salmaso (Managing Director, BKT Europe), Martin Anayi (CEO, United Rugby Championship) and Ben John (The Rugby Trainer and former Ospreys player).
Why Kenfig Hill RFC Was Chosen
Kenfig Hill RFC, established in 1897, is a true community club and a proud affiliate of the Ospreys. With 120 men’s senior players, 40 women’s senior players, 360 junior players, and 1200 social club members, Kenfig Hill RFC is deeply embedded in the local community. The club is future-facing and focused on diversity, with male and female representation at the committee level. Kenfig Hill RFC also supports the community through various initiatives, including fundraising to ensure junior members do not pay for memberships, supporting numerous charity partners, and offering a range of community services such as mental health workshops and gym classes for all ages. Kenfig Hill were informed of their successful application at Judgement Day – the renowned URC double-header featuring two Welsh derby matches - in June, where 20 guests from Kenfig got to meet The Rugby Trainer and ex Ospreys player Ben John, watch both the matches, then hand out the Player of the Match medals.
How the BKT Power Zone Will Help
Beyond the immediate impact to the rugby offering of Kenfig Hill RFC, the contribution from BKT will enable the club to better serve their community by diversifying their offering. Kenfig Hill will soon introduce fitness classes for non-rugby players and community groups, as well as complimentary access use of the BKT Power Zone for local schools.
Launching the Power Zone
On November 27th, the BKT Power Zone was officially opened at Kenfig Hill RFC with a day filled with various rugby and fitness sessions hosted by Ben John. The event saw participation from local school children of different ages, members of the Cartrefi Cymru Co-op (non-profit organisation to support people with learning disabilities), and players from the Ospreys team. The ceremonial ribbon cutting was performed by Lucia Salmaso (Managing Director, BKT Europe), Howard Phillips (Chairman, Kenfig Hill RFC) and Martin Anayi (CEO, URC). Activities on the day showcased the versatility of the BKT Power Zone, demonstrating its value not only for rugby purposes but as a community space for all.
Lucia Salmaso, Managing Director of BKT Europe, stated, “We are incredibly proud to inaugurate this new sports area as part of our ongoing commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility. This new project underlines our willingness to invest in the well-being of our communities and creating opportunities for health, growth, and togetherness. The BKT Power Zone in Kenfig Hill RFC represents our dedication to empowering individuals, fostering inclusivity, and building a brighter future for all, thanks to sport.”
Martin Anayi, CEO of United Rugby Championship, added, “We asked for applications from clubs that really needed a helping hand to create something for the community and Kenfig won the day. Rugby is about heartland communities. Nothing says that more than where we are in Wales today. It can be very wet down here. The club runs a number of teams, so they needed this facility. It will be a real point of difference, enabling them to train in any weather. It’s been great to see so many youngsters enjoying making use of it and having fun out there. This project shows the commitment we as a league alongside our clubs like Ospreys and our partners BKT have to supporting the game at grassroots level and leaving a meaningful legacy.”
Ben John, The Rugby Trainer former Ospreys player and rugby personality, commented, “It has been an absolute pleasure to be part of such an incredible activation from start to finish. Seeing so many clubs across the BKT URC doing amazing work within their communities has been truly inspiring. For BKT and URC to offer a life-changing opportunity by gifting an outdoor training facility to the winners is simply mind-blowing! Meeting the winners at Kenfig Hill RFC was such a memorable experience. They are an extraordinary community, and I’m incredibly proud to have been involved in this fantastic initiative.”
Lee Houldcroft, Club Operations Manager Kenfig Hill RFC, “The BKT Power Zone is a true game changer for our club. This facility will not only elevate our rugby training and performance but will also open up a world of opportunities for our non-rugby offerings. This versatile space will benefit our players, members, and the wider community, fostering a stronger, more connected community for everyone.
