As the Cardiff Rugby first team squad prepared to kick-off the 2023-24 season they enjoyed a closed-door session with endurance athlete and former Welsh international Richard Parks.
The former Celtic Warriors, Leeds Tykes and Dragons flanker is now a multiple world record holding polar and alpine athlete.
Among his incredible achievements, Richard has skied more solo, unsupported, and unassisted miles in Antarctica than anyone else in history, 4400km, and is the first person of colour to ski solo to the South Pole solo. This unique skillset saw him chosen to be Hollywood super icon Will Smith’s on-screen guide in his upcoming Disney+ series.
Richard’s cycled off-road and unsupported from Canada to Mexico and is the first person to climb the highest mountain on each continent and stand on both the North and South Poles in the same calendar year - his 737 Challenge
Now, an accomplished and award-winning author and film-maker, Richard took time out of his busy schedule to spend an afternoon with the Blue and Blacks.
He delivered a brutally honest and inspiring session on his own journey from rugby player to elite endurance athlete and tackled issues including mental health, resilience, making the most of every moment and life after rugby.
Richard was the first in a series of key note speakers, Cardiff Rugby plan to utilise during the 2023-24 season.