World record aim for 30 hour rugby game
A sporting charity, School of Hard Knocks (SOHK), is aiming to break the Guinness World Record for the longest match of rugby union this summer.
The ground-breaking charity uses sport, mentoring and an evidence-based curriculum to improve people’s physical and mental wellbeing and will play full contact rugby union, with only 23 players per side, continuously for over 30 hours.
The event will raise money for SOHK’s work across the UK, which helps vulnerable adults and children using rugby, boxing and strongman training.
SOHK and military charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers already hold the record for the longest ever match of rugby, set in 2015 at 28 hours and 23 minutes.
The last attempt raised £50k for the two charities. However, Scotty’s Little Soldiers broke it again last year, playing against a Fore Brigade charity.
This year, SOHK want the record back and aim to go one better, extending the record and raising £100k.
A number of high-profile ambassadors, with World Cup finalist Andy Gomarsall MBE and Scottish international Ben Hinshelwood, are already confirmed for the SOHK team.
Andy Gomarsall MBE, 2003 World Cup winner and SOHK patron, said: “I am honoured to be captaining the SOHK team who as a charity do so much to help the disadvantaged in society.
“I know my body will suffer like never before,
but it will be worth it to help raise valuable
funds for such an important cause.”
“I’m excited and terrified of the World Record match itself! It’s the equivalent of almost 24 consecutive games of rugby which is mind-boggling.
“I know my body will suffer like never before, but it will be worth it to help raise valuable funds for such an important cause.”
Ken Cowen, CEO and SOHK Founder, said: “This would have been undoubtedly the hardest thing I have ever attempted. However, I sustained an injury which means I am out for the next 9 months.”
Whilst training for the event, Ken ruptured his quadricep muscle from his knee, leaving him on the sidelines for the event.
“I’m gutted I won’t be playing, but in true Hardknocks spirit I will be there. Please support our brilliant players to help us raise our target of £100k.”
The other players are drawn from the charity’s network of supporters in businesses and rugby clubs. The opposition for the attempt will be a Wooden Spoon XV (TBC), representing the UK’s oldest rugby charity.
The attempt will take place at Rosslyn Park RFC (TBC) from 24th-25th August 2019, starting at 10am on 24th and finishing at around 6pm on 25th.
To support or donate SOHK’s world record attempt, click here.