Members and supporters of Burton Rugby Club have managed to raise more than £11,000 for their beloved team – and there is still nearly a week left to go.
The Staffordshire outfit set about raising money for the club after it suffered a financial hit amid the coronavirus pandemic, with numerous events having to be cancelled such as Ladies Day, the Annual Ball and the final farewell fixture at Peel Croft – the home of Burton since 1910 – as it moves to a new ground.
Last month, Burton asked people to take part in their 2.6 challenge – an initiative which was set up after this year’s London Marathon was cancelled and invites community members to raise money for charities and organisations by undergoing a challenge that incorporates the number 26 or 2.6, such as 26 press-ups or jogging 2.6 miles.
Burton decided to aim to travel 12,658 virtual kilometres to Cape Town, South Africa, over 26 days, starting from April 26 with all miles completed logged by organisers.
Cape Town was chosen as location in homage to the club’s international exchange programme that sees players from South Africa come over to the UK to experience this country’s culture and feature for Burton, with several players going in the opposite direction and doing the same there.
Senior men’s team player Harry Titley told Sport in Staffs that the club is very thankful for every donation that has been given.
“To raise more than £10,000 is really impressive,” he stated. “We are all really thankful, that money helps us massively.”
He explained further why Burton decided to launch the fundraiser.
“It’s securing our future. Because of the pandemic we missed out on a lot of income, and tickets on the gate,” he said.
“We weren’t able to have our final ever game at the Croft, which no doubt would have been a record attendance. It’s massive shame. It has impacted other events too, like the end of season awards nights, the ball and sporting dinners – all big fundraisers.
“The club as a whole was building up to this year with it being Burton’s 150th anniversary. Everyone knew it was going to be a big and emotion year. Some have been there for their whole lives from being a kid to now seeing their grandkids play there, so not to say goodbye is devastating for them.
“To see the Croft getting torn down now – it’s difficult.”
Over 160 people have now registered on running app ‘Strava’ to take part in Burton’s fundraiser. Organisers were hoping to reach Cape Town within 26 days – but it only took them 11.
Former professional Argentinian rugby players Marcelo Bosch and Marcos Ayerza – who both played at the top level of the English game – are now both at Burton Rugby Club so organisers suggested that on the way back, the fundraiser made a virtual detour to Buenos Aires to honour the club’s links with the country.
“We made it there in five days,” Titley recalled, laughing. “We are now on the way back home and our fundraiser finishes on May 21 (Thursday) so people are still able donate to the page.”
To donate to Burton’s incredible fundraising feat, click here.
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WE HAVE MOVED! 