Martenko, Chris

DOB: 05/01/1983

Height: 6ft 6in

Weight: 17st

Honours: Wales U21

Chris Martenko is sponsored by: Southward Business Computing Ltd

Biography:

Born in Tonyrefail, Chris was a late starter as far as competitive rugby was concerned, taking up the game at youth level with Gilfach Goch. There followed a four month stint with Bridgend Youth in 2002, before Chris moved back to Gilfach, graduating through to the senior team at a young age.

At the commencement of the 2003 season, Chris joined the ranks of the Warriors regional under 21 team, whilst also appearing on permit from time to time with Pontypridd. A permanent committment to the Sardis Road outfit came about mid season for Chris, who was employed as a railway engineering operative.

Putting in some noteable performances for his club in their premiership campaign, as an industrious lock who relished the physical aspects of the game, Chris was rewarded with a call up to the Wales under 21 squad for the 2004 Six Nations and World Cup campaigns.

At the close of the 2005/06 season, Chris departed Pontypridd on accepting a development contract with the Ospreys. Injuries however plagued much of Chris' professional stint, and in 2007, faced the prospect of an early retirement from the game.

2008  saw a change in Chris' fortunes, having recovered from a major shoulder operation to commence playing for Gilfach Goch . A good run of form was noted by the Pontypridd RFC management, and Chris Martenko stepping back up to the club's ranks during the 2008 - 2009 campaign.