Bristol prop Jake Woolmore is on the verge of making history as he prepares to break the Bears' top-flight appearance record. The 35-year-old will take to the field against Northampton for his 142nd league appearance, surpassing the previous record held by Darren Crompton. Despite this milestone, Woolmore is also known for a less flattering statistic: he has never scored a try in the Premiership.
A Stubborn Journey
Woolmore's path to this record has been anything but straightforward. Starting at Yeovil College, he played for Sherborne RFC, Taunton Titans, Exeter Chiefs, and Jersey Reds before making his Premiership debut at the age of 27. Reflecting on his career, he says: "It's probably my stubbornness that allows me to keep going. It also helps to be in the front row; you haven't got to maintain Louis Rees-Zammit speed."
The Tryless Streak
Woolmore's lack of tries has become a running joke. The all-time Premiership record for most games without a try is held by Kieran Brookes with 158, followed by Mark Sorenson with 144. Woolmore, closing in on that record, says: "People say: 'Do you not want to score?' And I say: 'I don't care as long as someone else does.' It's become a bit of a joke now."
Life Beyond Rugby
Woolmore emphasizes the importance of having interests off the field. He previously worked at a college for students with learning difficulties and trained as a barber. Now, with teammate Harry Thacker, he runs an award-winning business offering saunas and ice baths for physical and mental wellbeing. "Having something else is a huge benefit for lads," he explains.
Playoff Push
With Bristol sitting fifth in the league, three points behind fourth-placed Exeter, Woolmore remains focused on team success. "We believe we can turn them over no matter how they're going," he says of their upcoming match against Northampton. "We've got all the tools; we've just got to go and do it."
