The British and Irish Lions have met up for the first time ahead of their June tour to New Zealand. Head coach Clive Woodward gathered the 44-man squad near Cardiff to lay out his tour vision and held motivational talks and team-building exercises.
And Ireland's Brian O'Driscoll revealed how overwhelmed he was to be captain.
"It hit home what a massive honour it is to be captain of the squad. The room was littered with captains and leaders from both club and country," he said.
"Seeing so much class together is what makes this so exciting and we know we all have a chance to be involved in something special.
"Everyone realises that from this day forward we cease to be Irish, Scottish, English and Welsh.
"We become Lions with tremendous history and objectives."
Gareth Thomas lent his support to O'Driscoll on behalf of the Welsh representatives.
"There will be tough times and good times but I guarantee me and the other Welsh players we will support Brian 100%."
Woodward confirmed he would be adopting a typically meticulous approach to the tour.
"This is the day it has all become real," he said.
"I am determined we leave no stone unturned in our preparations and this is the first opportunity for me to sit down with the players to discuss that.
"I am very impressed by them. They are totally up for it, focussed and committed to doing the best possible for their clubs, countries and the Lions."
MMIX
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This is the day it has all become real - I am determined we leave no stone unturned
