Grand Slam win boosts the nation

Mar 17 2008 by Karen Price, Western Mail

Terrific, stunning, fantastic – here, famous Welshies give their verdict on the sporting performance of the year

“A stunning victory from an outstanding team and by far the most wonderful atmosphere I have ever experienced anywhere.”
Grammy Award-winning soprano Rebecca Evans

“I experienced the euphoria and happiness of Wales winning but it was also tinged with a little sadness as I wondered how my old friend Gareth Jenkins would be feeling and I was thinking how great it would have been if Ray (Gravell) could have been there too.”
Ex-international Rupert Moon

“It was terrific – they deserved it. This was no fluke. Every match they played they got better and better and they were so superior even though France played well. I think we’ve got another ‘70s era coming.”
West End star Peter Karrie

“That was even better than 2005. This team is playing with a ruthless defensive efficiency, combined with traditional Welsh attacking flair. That was a big strong, fast French team out there and we made them look quite ordinary. What Warren Gatland and Shaun Edwards have done is to turn the men in red into men of steel, just like the Welsh teams of the golden years 30 years ago.”
First Minister Rhodri Morgan

“It was fantastic, brilliant for everyone in Wales. We thoroughly deserved to win – they were playing consistently well in the championship.”
X Factor star Rhydian Roberts

“They’re just brilliant and I’m so happy for them. It’s been awesome. They’ve shown flair and divine-like inspiration. With our blood and thunder we were invincible.”
Singer Katherine Jenkins

“What a fantastic result, performance and season. This puts Wales back at the top table of world rugby where it belongs. Well done Warren Gatland, his management team and the players.”
2005 Grand Slam winning coach Mike Ruddock