This week, winner of the BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year 2025, Benjamin Pritchard was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science in recognition of his extraordinary achievements and inspirational journey by Bangor University.
An inspirational athlete and Bangor University alumnus, Benjamin Pritchard graduated in 2013 with an LLB in Law before going on to achieve remarkable success in para-rowing.
Born and raised in Mumbles, South Wales, Benjamin was a former cyclist and triathlete before a life-changing cycling accident in 2016 left him paralysed from the waist down.
During rehabilitation at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, he discovered rowing and quickly rose through the ranks, joining the GB Para Rowing Team in 2017. Making his international debut in 2019, Benjamin has since represented Great Britain at multiple championships, becoming a European Champion, World and European Record Holder, and World Champion. A particular highlight was winning Gold in the PR1 men’s single sculls at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, where he set the new Paralympic record.
As part of his address to the graduates, Benjamin said, “Being awarded an Honorary Degree by Bangor University is an extraordinary privilege, and one that means more to me that I can fully express. The University helped shape the person I am today. It gave me confidence when I had very little, perspective when I needed it most, and friendships that have lasted far beyond my time here. Bangor is a place that leaves its mark, in the best possible way.”
