Throughout the month of August, our U14’s rugby team embarked on an ambitious challenge: to collectively cover the distance of 954 miles from Chester RUFC to Stade Du France and back before the kick off of the Rugby World Cup. This marked the beginning of our fundraising efforts for the upcoming "Big Big Tour" as we transition into the Colts age group.
The lads not only met but exceeded expectations, conquering a remarkable total of 1108 miles by September 6th. Notably, our dedicated coaches also took on their own challenge, amassing an impressive total of 465 miles. It's important to emphasize that these were no ordinary miles—they were accumulated as additional activities outside the players' regular routines.
The boys exhibited extraordinary commitment, incorporating their mileage into a variety of exciting endeavours. From beach broncos and extensive 30+ mile bike rides to kayaking in Canada, taking dogs for extra-long walks, and opting for walking tours instead of sightseeing buses in cities like Barcelona, the squad truly embraced the challenge.
To further enhance their collective efforts, the team commenced each training session with a squad run, ensuring they started and finished together. Adding to the excitement, we were honoured to have special guests join us throughout this journey. Nick Joseph (Director of Rugby) and Guy Ford (1st XV Coach) kicked off the challenge, engaging our players in a thrilling bronco race.
Pip and Fitch from the Devas squad, along with some senior men’s players, contributed to a training run and skill development sessions, making the experience even more memorable. Adrian Dakers from Little Blackbird and Chester Relics manager also lent their support, providing words of encouragement that resonated with the team.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us during this incredible journey!
In terms of fundraising, the boys achieved a remarkable feat by raising a total of £2,050, with a percentage allocated to support Looseheadz youth programs. This outstanding achievement sets a positive tone for the upcoming season, and we are thrilled to witness the enthusiasm and commitment displayed by our U14’s team.