Colin Mansbridge, The Crusaders

Step up to the plate and hit us with your elevator pitch. Who are the Crusaders?

The Crusaders team is based in Christchurch, but our region encompasses six proud provincial unions, representing the top of the South Island – Tasman, Buller, West Coast, Canterbury, Mid Canterbury and South Canterbury. While we’ve enjoyed plenty of on-field success throughout Super Rugby’s 26 year history, what makes me most proud to be associated with this club is its people. The Crusaders organisation is made up of good people who care about one another, and we pride ourselves on connecting with the fans and communities we represent.

Why have you decided to do Bayleys Plate Up for a Purpose this year?

Every year we’ve been involved in Bayleys Plate Up for a Purpose we hear inspiring stories of children who’ve benefited from the back to school program the City Mission leads. At the same time, we also hear about the increasing numbers of families who need to access the Mission’s services. It’s always a shock, and it’s an inspiration to try and find a way to help. Bayleys Plate Up for a Purpose not only helps raise money for the cause, but it also highlights this important issue, and I get to have fun doing it with some great people.

Who’s your chef hero and why?

I know this sounds sycophantic, but Richard Hingston of Christchurch Casino has worked with our team for the past few years. I’ve watched more cooking shows than you can imagine, from Jamie Oliver to Master Chef. But none of them have inspired me to want to prepare food as much as Richard. Two years ago, we created an award-winning dessert I was able to plate up for my family the following Xmas. Even they said it was the best dessert they’d ever eaten. Richard is a genius if he can extract that sort of feedback from my family!

What’s your signature dish?

Well nowadays it has to be what Richard taught me to create. So, it’s buttermilk vanilla pannacotta, raspberry jelly and seasonal fruit or bacon and eggs. The dessert is one that takes days to create, moments to assemble, and is a family talking point for weeks (if I can keep the tradition going).