Keith Wood

Biography

Keith Wood is a former international rugby union footballer who played hooker for Ireland, the Lions, Garryowen, Harlequins and Munster. He was nicknamed 'The Raging Potato' because of his bald head and was also known as 'Uncle Fester' due to his resemblance to a character in The Addams Family.

He started his career at Garryowen who he helped to All Ireland titles in 1992 and 1994 before moving to Harlequins. He returned to play with Munster Rugby in the 1999-2000 season and played in the European Rugby Cup final before returning to Harlequins.

Wood made his international debut in 1994 against Australia. He was capped 58 times for Ireland and went on to captain the side. He played on both the 1997 and 2001 Lions tours, winning five caps, and was also the inaugural winner of the IRB World Player of the Year award in 2001.

Wood retired from playing after the 2003 Rugby World Cup. Renowned for playing with his heart on his sleeve, he always put his body on the line with trademark charging runs at the defence and his real strength was in leadership and open play, where he dominated the world XV's hooker spot.

He currently holds a world record of 15 full international test tries scored by a hooker, previously held by Sean Fitzpatrick (12) of the New Zealand All Blacks.

Keith says...

"My family and I have lived in Richmond for over ten years and the Park is the cornerstone of our love for the place. I am delighted to support the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon, because these parks are vitally important for us all - although nowadays my body might complain after running that distance! Money is badly needed to keep these great reserves intact, for today and as a gift to future generations."