South African adventurers Ron Rutland and Adam Nunn have embarked on an epic quest to cycle 16,500km to deliver a specially engraved whistle for the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2021, playing in 2022 in Auckland, and raise funds for the event’s Charity Partner ChildFund Rugby.
The pair will travel through 14 nations across 210 days, arriving in New Zealand just ahead of the opening match at Eden Park between South Africa and France on 8 October, and are aiming to make this trip the most interactive yet. Their plan is to get fans to ‘sponsor a kilometre’ for US$10 with all proceeds going to ChildFund Rugby.
Rutland and Nunn will participate in ChildFund Rugby partnerships throughout their journey, which provide opportunities for children and young people to learn new life skills and become active leaders in their communities.
“ChildFund Rugby is grateful for Ron and Adam’s commitment to support our partnerships ahead of what is set to be an amazing celebration of sport in New Zealand for Rugby World Cup 2021. Their incredible feat to cycle from Tokyo to Auckland for Rugby World Cup 2021 will support even more girls and women to play, learn, and lead through rugby, and to build critical skills that will support safe and peaceful communities for everyone,” said ChildFund Sport for Development Director Chris Mastaglio.
World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin shared these sentiments and said that they are proud to be supporting Rutland and Nunn on their epic adventure.
The dynamic duo are also encouraging rugby communities along the way to get involved and reach out to them as they undertake their journey. Progress can be followed via the www.racetorugbyworldcup.com website and via @RaceToRWC on Twitter.
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Picture: ChildFundRugby