Sam Warburton: The memories you will create will be some of the best in your life

Sam Warburton is widely regarded as one of the greatest flankers of his generation. He played as an openside flanker and was known for his exceptional skills in the breakdown, his leadership abilities, and his relentless work rate on the field. Warburton made his debut for the Welsh national team in 2009 and was appointed captain in 2011, becoming the youngest player ever to captain Wales. Under his leadership, Wales achieved significant success, including winning the Six Nations Championship in 2012, 2013, and 2019. Sam also led Wales to the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup in 2011 and 2019. He retired from professional rugby in 2018 due to persistent injuries but left behind a legacy as one of the finest players and leaders in Welsh rugby history.

We asked Sam what his best touring moment were:

“My most memorable tour was the 2011 Rugby World Cup. It was my first World Cup and also my first time to New Zealand. I also played some of the best rugby of my career.

The place that stood out in New Zealand was Auckland. I really enjoyed it there, it was a great city. I also loved our time in Taupo which was a nice place to relax with hot springs by the lake in a quieter setting.”

“We went quade biking with a group of 10 players on a day off in Auckland across woodland, beaches and sand dunes which was great fun.

If I was to give any advice for boys & girls going out on their first tour, it would be to take plenty of photos and enjoy the country you’re in as much as possible. The memories you will create will be some of the best in your life.”

Conrad Smith

Conrad Smith is a retired New Zealand professional rugby player who is considered one of the greatest centers in the history of the sport. He played as an inside center and was known for his exceptional defensive skills, intelligent decision-making, and ability to create opportunities for his teammates. Conrad made his debut for the New Zealand national team in 2004 and went on to have a highly successful international career. He was a key member of the All Blacks team that won the Rugby World Cup in 2011 and 2015, and he played a pivotal role in their success. Conrad was known for his ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions, as well as his excellent communication skills on the field. He retired from professional rugby in 2015, leaving behind a legacy as one of New Zealand’s most respected and admired players.

Conrad Smith talking about his best rugby touring moments

Conrad Smith

Jamie Roberts: My advice to someone going on their first tour would be to embrace it

Jamie Roberts has had a successful career both internationally and domestically. He plays as a centre and is known for his powerful running and strong defensive abilities. Jamie Roberts made his debut for the Welsh national team in 2008 and went on to earn over 90 caps, representing Wales in several Six Nations tournaments and Rugby World Cups. He has also played for various club teams, including Cardiff Blues, Racing 92, and Harlequins. Jamie’s not only a talented rugby player but also a qualified doctor, having completed his medical degree while pursuing his rugby career. His combination of athleticism and intelligence has made him a respected figure in the world of rugby.

We asked Jamie to reveal some of his best touring moments.

“My most memorable tour was the Lions in 2009. South Africa is my favourite place to tour and to reach the pinnacle in my sport in that country was just epic.

I would have to say the place that stood out to me was Cape Town. It is one of my favourite cities in the world, I also loved Durban.

We didn’t have a great deal of time to do activities on that tour but having toured South Africa numerous times, I have enjoyed cage diving with sharks, Table Mountain and visiting the Cape of Good Hope.

My advice to someone going on their first tour would be to embrace it. By that, I mean work hard in training and enjoying playing but get out in the evenings or when you get some spare time… go and see and feel the country you’re visiting.”

James Simpson-Daniel: My most memorable trip was a school rugby tour to South Africa in 1998

Jamie Simpson-Daniel is a former English professional rugby player who primarily played as a winger. He spent the entirety of his career with Gloucester Rugby club in the English Premiership. Simpson-Daniel was known for his incredible speed, agility, and elusive running style, which made him a dangerous attacking threat on the field. He possessed excellent footwork and had a knack for scoring spectacular tries. Simpson-Daniel represented England at international level, earning 10 caps for his country. Simpson-Daniel is still remembered as one of the most exciting and dynamic wingers of his generation. After retiring from professional rugby in 2014, he has remained involved in the sport through various coaching and media roles.

We asked Jamie to reveal some of his best touring moments:

“My most memorable trip was a school rugby tour to South Africa in 1998. It was the first time that I’d visited and is a place I will never forget. I loved the people there: they were very passionate about their sports on the field but so friendly off the field. We were hosted by local families for some of our time and it was fantastic to experience their lifestyle. It is a beautiful country with plenty of activities to do. We went on Safari and deep sea fishing which was amazing.”

“One of the places that stood out for me was Durban. It is right on the coast with awesome restaurants. Going to watch the Super 14 game (as it was called at the time) was incredible.

My advice to anyone going on their first tour would be to take everything in and be willing to try things that you wouldn’t get to do back home.”