From playing barefoot rugby in South Africa to battling in England’s west country of Gloucester, tyro Gareth Blackmore has already enjoyed quite the rugby journey.
The 18-year-old, who has recently transferred from back row to hooker, grew up near Durban before moving to Cape Town in 2013 and captained prestigious rugby school Rondebosch Boys breaking numerous 1st XV records.
Blackmore was subsequently selected for Western Province Schools in South Africa’s provincial tournament, The Craven Week, which his Western Province side won.
“When I was younger we always played barefoot,” said Blac...