Richard Parks sends Wales good luck message from Aconcagua

3rd February 2011

Former Wales International and Barbarian flanker Richard Parks sent the Welsh rugby squad a special good luck message from the highest mountain in South America as he continues his 7-month race to climb the 7 Summits, which are the highest mountain on each of the world's continents, and venture to The North and South Poles.

As Wales prepare to take on England in the huge opening clash of the six nations, Richard prepares to take on his summit ascent of Aconcagua in Argentina, the 3rd leg of his incredible 737 Challenge. From just under 5000m at camp 1 on his way to the summit, Richard recorded a special good luck message stating; “I just want to wish the welsh boys the very best for the game against England, I am sat in my tent here at camp 1, the views are pretty spectacular here nevertheless I wish I was at the millennium stadium to support you boys, I am sure they’ll be some fireworks there so all the best, have a top game”.

CLICK BELOW TO LISTEN TO HIS MESSAGE

Richard was forced to retire from professional rugby due to a career ending shoulder injury in May 2009. He now proudly wears a special gold and silver WRU badge on his summit jacket which was presented to him by Roger Lewis and first minister Carwyn Jones at Wales v New Zealand in November in front of a full house at the millennium stadium.

In December 2010 Richard started the unique, multi-disciplined 737 Challenge. When successful he will become the first ever person to stand on the continental summits and all 3 poles in the same calendar year, and set a new benchmark in the climbing of the 7 Summits. His challenge is a true world first.

He has already conquered the South Pole and the highest mountain in Antarctica, Mount Vinson. Aconcagua is the second highest of the 7 summits and the highest mountain outside of the Himalayas.

Richard aims to raise £1 million pounds for Marie Curie Cancer Care.