lsh referee Nigel Owens married his long-time partner, Barrie Jones-Davies, last year.
The pair, who had been together for many years, celebrated their union in an intimate private ceremony, beginning a new chapter in their lives together.
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Jones-Davies, a primary school teacher, and Owens, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby referees of all time, share not only a deep personal bond but also a passion for farming, which they manage together in the picturesque Gwendraeth Valley.
The 51-year-old Owens, who officiated 100 test matches before retiring in 2020, has remained active in the rugby world through various advisory roles with the Welsh Rugby Union, the United Rugby Championship, and World Rugby.
However, despite receiving a tempting offer from South Africa’s Director of Rugby, Rassie Erasmus, to join the Springboks’ coaching team for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Owens revealed that he had to decline the opportunity.
In his column for Wales Online, Owens explained that the timing was not right, primarily due to exciting developments in his personal life.
“The main reason why I had to turn down the job is because myself and my partner Barrie have some exciting news to share – we are currently in the final stages of the adoption process and will hopefully be starting our family in the coming months,” Owens wrote.
He expressed his excitement about becoming a parent, a journey the couple has been preparing for over the past few years. “There’s not too much I can say at the moment about the process itself, but we are both incredibly excited.
“It’s something that we’ve spoken about for a few years now and it’s taken a while to get here, but now that it’s happening we can’t wait, although I must admit it’s also a little nerve-wracking,” Owens admitted.
Recognising the immense responsibility that comes with raising a child, Owens emphasised that family must come first.
“As any parent will tell you, there’s no bigger commitment than raising a child, so that was obviously the main reason why I decided against the South Africa job in the end. I couldn’t, nor would I want to, go away for the next six months with this happening,” he added.
NEW PROJECT
Owens has announced an exciting new venture away from rugby, revealing the launch of a stunning countryside retreat in the heart of rural Wales.
“Welcome to The Mairwen Barn. After months of hard work, we’re so excited to finally share our little countryside escape with you.”
Nestled in the beautiful Welsh countryside, The Mairwen Barn is a lovingly converted barn designed to offer guests the perfect place to relax, unwind and escape the pressures of everyday life.
Located on Owens’ family farm, the accommodation sleeps up to four guests and features a private sheltered hot tub, making it ideal for couples, families or friends looking for a peaceful getaway.
Whether it’s exploring the surrounding countryside, enjoying cosy evenings under the stars or simply switching off for a few days, the barn promises a tranquil escape in one of Wales’ most picturesque settings.
The announcement has already attracted plenty of interest, with supporters congratulating Owens on his latest venture away from the rugby field.
Guests interested in booking a stay can check availability through The Mairwen Barn’s official website, while regular updates and behind-the-scenes content will also be shared via the property’s Instagram account as the new business begins welcoming its first visitors.
Book here:
www.themairwenbarn.co.uk
“There were never any complaints from him over refereeing, not even when borderline decisions went against France. When his team were crushed 62-13 by New Zealand during the 2015 World Cup, he wasn’t tempted to blame anyone.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
