A Scotty’s Invitational team will take on a Tri-services squad in a 15-a-side full contact rugby match over more than 24 hours, raising awareness and funds for Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity dedicated to supporting the children of men and women killed in action while serving with the British Armed Forces.
The charity provides treats, trips and activities for affected families with the aim of offering a respite from the daily ups and downs of coping without a loved one.
Tigers legend Ben Kay is a patron of Scotty’s Little Soldiers, while Louis Deacon has adopted the cause as one of his benefit year charities.
Inspired by the experience of army widow Nichola Scott, the charity honours her husband Corporal Lee ‘Scotty’ Scott’s memory – as a soldier and father – and provides an opportunity for the public to show their appreciation of those who make the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country.
Alan Knell, event manager for the record bid and a fundraising co-ordinator from Scotty's Little Soldiers, says: "We wanted to create an event that would capture the imagination of so many people and, with the brilliant support we had from Leicester Tigers, it made sense to try to break a world record in rugby.
“The world of rugby has been so supportive with what the players are taking on, from the RFU to local rugby clubs, it's clear to see where the term ‘rugby family’ comes from.
"The players are taking on a massive challenge with what amounts to 19 back-to-back games of full contact rugby. A Premiership season is just 22 games, so you can see the challenge that is ahead of us!
“We worked out that each player will cover the distance of around two marathons and the Guinness World Record rules say that they are only allowed 20 minutes rest every four hours and can't leave the pitchside. It will be an incredible day!"
The public are encouraged to show their support during the record bid by coming down to Welford Road and cheering the teams on and organisers are looking to add some family activities to the event too.
For more information about the game visit http://www.scottysworldrecordfundraiser.co.uk/ or see @scottysrugby on Twitter or Facebook. To contact the team regarding sponsorship please email [email protected]
