Richard receives Hero’s Welcome at emotional homecoming

19th July 2011

Richard Parks returned to Wales this evening to a hero’s welcome at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay.  Parks arrived in front of a 200 strong crowd to a moving rendition of “Ain’t no mountain high enough” sang by the fantastic Cardiff Arms Park Male Choir, a fitting tribute to the man who made history last week becoming the first ever person to stand on the highest peaks on each of the world’s 7 continents and all 3 poles in the same calendar year.

Richard was flooded with requests for autographs and pictures as he made his way through the crowd who had gathered outside holding aloft posters and flags.

Following a speech outside the Senedd and plenty of hugs, pictures and smiles, Parks made his way inside to a special reception hosted by Rosemary Butler, Assembly Member for Newport West, where family, friends, sponsors and guests gathered to celebrate Richard’s return.

Richard stated; “It was an amazing experience that will live with me forever.  To arrive back in Cardiff Bay with the Cardiff Arms Park Male Choir singing and to be greeted by so many people who had given up their time to support my challenge and Marie Curie Cancer Care was surreal and humbling.  Thank you so much to everyone that waited outside and came along”.

He also added; “It was great to see the challenge team, sponsors, friends and family inside the Senedd, some people I had not seen for 7 months.  I am incredibly grateful to Rosemary Butler for hosting the evening and feel very proud to have been a guest at the Senedd today”.

The 737 Challenge would like to thank our amazing sponsors; Clogau Gold, Mon Motors Audi, Jagged Globe, Rab, Gusto Events, Scarpa, Grivel, Lifesystems and Napp for their amazing support throughout the 737 Challenge.  A special thank you to Clogau Gold for making a generous donation towards tonight’s reception and to Edwards Coaches for supplying transport for the awesome schools who attended Richard’s homecoming.