Ben Pritchard aims to defend world title after European victory
Welsh para-rower Ben Pritchard won the PR1 men's single sculls at the European Championships despite a pre-event injury and now targets a world title defence in Amsterdam.
Ben Pritchard, a 34-year-old para-rower from Mumbles, Swansea, secured the European title in the PR1 men's single sculls after surviving a fall caused by a hoist cable snapping during his arrival in Varese, Italy. Despite managing the resulting injury throughout the event, he edged out Italy's Giacomo Perini in a race that stayed tight until the final 250 metres. Pritchard, who was named one outlet Cymru Wales Sports Personality of the Year for 2025, will travel to Amsterdam where the World Rowing Championships will be held at the Bosbaan venue from 24-30 August.
He highlighted the intensive speed work being done in the final training block and observed that rival Erik Horrie appears to be in strong form. He looks forward to competing and possibly watching Welsh hockey teams at the same venue.
Why it matters
The story shows how an athlete can overcome injury to compete at the highest level, influencing national pride and upcoming world championships.
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