Ben Pritchard's story is one of perseverance, dedication, and triumph over adversity—a tale that intertwines his Masonic journey with his path to becoming a Team GB Gold Medallist in rowing. As a proud member of the Corinthian Lodge in the Province of South Wales, Ben's achievements on and off the water serve as an inspiration to both his Brethren and the wider community.
Ben's introduction to Freemasonry in 2019 came at a pivotal time in his life. Following a life-changing cycling accident, Ben found himself moving back to South Wales from London due to the challenges of living with a disability in the capital. A close friend, Brother Ben Hiscott, who had been a part of Ben's life since childhood, introduced him to the world of Freemasonry. Initially hesitant, Ben was eventually convinced by the promise of camaraderie and the opportunity to connect with new friends meaningfully.
The Initiation ceremony left a profound impact on Ben, sparking a deep passion for the rituals and teachings of Freemasonry. "I just remember not being able to sleep after my Initiation," Ben recalls. "I was just so buzzing about it." His enthusiasm only grew as he became more involved, eventually progressing to the role of Junior Warden in his Lodge.
Ben's journey to the Paralympics is as remarkable as his Masonic path. Before his accident, he was a promising triathlete and cyclist, representing Wales at National and International levels. However, in 2016, a tragic cycling accident left Ben paralysed from the ribcage down.
Determined not to let his disability define him, Ben found solace and a new direction during his rehabilitation at Stoke Mandeville Hospital—the birthplace of the Paralympic movement. It was here that Ben first encountered rowing, albeit in a rather humbling fashion. "I was tied to the pontoon with a rope as all these Paralympic hopefuls were rowing past me," Ben recalls, highlighting the steep learning curve he faced.
Despite the initial challenges, Ben's determination paid off. Within weeks of being discharged from hospital, he was trialling for the Great Britain rowing team, marking the start of a new chapter in his athletic career. Over the years, Ben has achieved significant success, including winning a Bronze Medal at the World Championships and a Gold Medal at the World Cup for Team GB — his first international gold.
Ben's recent triumph at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where he not only won Gold for Team GB but also smashed a long-standing record in the process, is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. His training regime, which includes six days a week of gruelling sessions, is a testament to his commitment to excellence. "It's 49 weeks of the year, six days a week, three sessions a day on average," Ben explains, underscoring the Herculean physical and mental effort required to reach the pinnacle of his sport.
Looking ahead, Ben plans to take some well-deserved time off after the Paralympic Games to decompress and spend time with his family. He is also considering returning to work, possibly in the coffee industry or media, as a way to balance his life outside of sport. "I just feel like I'm not really present at home," Ben admits, reflecting on the sacrifices required to achieve his sporting dreams.
However, Ben is not just focused on his athletic career. He is also deeply committed to his role within Freemasonry, where he continues to find intellectual and emotional fulfilment. The rituals and ceremonies offer him a mental challenge that complements his physical training, keeping his mind sharp and engaged.
Ben's journey within Freemasonry has not been without its challenges, particularly given the physical demands of specific officer roles within the Lodge. However, his Lodge has been incredibly supportive, working with Ben to adapt his duties to accommodate his disability. As a Senior Deacon, a role that typically requires a high degree of physical activity, Ben and his Lodge have found ways to modify the rituals without changing them, ensuring that he can fully participate while honouring the traditions of the Craft.
Freemasonry's spirit of inclusivity and brotherhood is one of the many reasons why Ben is so passionate about the organisation. It has provided him with a sense of belonging and purpose, much like his athletic pursuits. As he continues to inspire others with his achievements, both on the water and within the Masonic community, Ben Pritchard exemplifies the resilience and determination that define the human spirit.
In a world where challenges are inevitable, Ben's story reminds us that with the right support and mind-set, anything is possible. His journey is a glorious example of how Freemasonry and sport can work hand in hand to help individuals overcome adversity and achieve greatness.
Listen to Ben's special edition episode of Craftcast: The Freemasons Podcast
