Two South Africans, Ron Rutland and Adam Nunn have set off on an adventure to cycle 16 500 km in celebration of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2021, playing in Aukland in 2022. They are going to deliver a whistle for the opening match on this epic quest to raise money for the charity partner of the event, ChildFund Rugby.
Picture: Supplied / Photographer Dwayne Senior for BIRKENSTOCK.
Their adventure began on 14 March at Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo. With the goal of cycling through 14 countries in 210 days, the two men are due to arrive in New Zealand on 8 October just before the opening match begins between South Africa and France at Eden Park.
As reported by Cape Town Etc, the plan is to make this adventure interactive, where fans are being called to ‘sponsor a kilometre’ for US$10 (R145) of which all funds will go to ChildFund Rugby.
Rutland and Nunn will get involved in ChildFund Rugby events through the course of their journey, with the goal of teaching young people and children new life skills to inspire positive social change and equip them to overcome challenges. Of the ChildFund Rugby participants, more than half are female and its environment aims to challenge gender stereotypes and create positive male and female role models.
Alan Gilpin, World Rugby Chief Executive said that they are honoured to be supporting Rutland and Nunn on their ambitious adventure.
‘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,’ said ChildFund Sport for Development Director Chris Mastaglio.
‘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.’
The first leg was sponsored by Birkenstock who are supplying the duo with footwear for their epic journey.
Picture: Supplied / Photographer Dwayne Senior for BIRKENSTOCK.
Their progress can be followed on the Race to World Rugby website and on Twitter.
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