Ben Pritchard: The road to Paralympic Gold

Schroders Personal Wealth (SPW) has been sponsoring para-rower, Ben Pritchard for the past three years. We’re delighted to share that following a phenomenal performance at the Paris Paralympic Games in September, Ben officially became a Paralympic Gold Medallist and record holder in the PR1 men’s single sculls division. Ben’s victory was Britain's first gold medal in the division since the 2008 Games in Beijing.

With a successful Paralympic Games under his belt, let’s reflect on Ben’s story so far and how his sponsorship started with us.

How did the sponsorship with Ben Pritchard begin?

Our sponsorship journey started with Ben Pritchard in 2021 after his parents, clients of SPW, discussed Ben’s journey with their SPW adviser – who in time brought his story to the business as an incredible sponsorship opportunity to change a life.

A former cyclist and triathlete, Ben became paralysed from the waist down after a cycling crash in September 2016. He first took up indoor rowing during his rehab at Stoke Mandeville Hospital and was quickly spotted by British Rowing staff, joining the para development squad in 2017.

Ben discovered a natural talent and love for the sport, making his GB Rowing Team International debut in the PR1 men’s single sculls at the 2019 World Championships. He came fifth at the delayed Tokyo Paralympic Games, setting a Paralympic record in the process.

Ben is a role model of resilience, dedication and determination. We are incredibly proud to have helped Ben on his journey over the past few years.

To learn more about Ben’s inspiring story, watch the videos below:

• Watch Ben tell his story, in his own words: I Am Able - Benjamin Pritchard

• Watch highlights of Ben’s Gold medal performance: Highlights (Ben's race is at 3min 20 secs)

A version of this article was originally published in Paralympics GB.