A Royal Reception for Rugby Charity Arctic Challengers

A Royal Reception for Rugby Charity Arctic Challengers

Wooden Spoon – the children’s charity of rugby hosted a special royal send off for its Arctic Challengers who were presented with ceremonial flags by Wooden Spoon Royal Patron, HRH The Princess Royal.

HRH The Princess Royal became a Royal Patron of the children’s charity in 1997 and continues to support many of its activities today.

In April, Wooden Spoon ambassadors and former Rugby Union Internationals Tim Stimpson formerly of England and Leicester Tigers along with Ollie Phillips ex England 7s and Gloucester winger will lead two teams of brave individuals on a pioneering expedition to the Magnetic North Pole. Former England and British Lions player, Lee Mears will also join the teams in the North Pole as match referee.

With the help of world-class polar adventurer, Jock Wishart, The teams will travel up to 100 miles to one of the furthest places north on the planet. Once the teams arrive they will take part in the northernmost rugby match in history.

HRH The Princess Royal said ““What an extraordinary concept the Wooden Spoon Arctic Rugby Challenge is. I know from my association with Wooden Spoon, that the charity is no stranger to weird and wonderful ways of raising money. For the challengers, it’s an experience that they will certainly never forget and to be a part of a world’s first is truly commendable.

I’ve had the opportunity the visit many Wooden Spoon projects both big and small and believe you me they have the most astonishing impact. My best wishes to the challengers.”

Captain of #teamollie, Ollie Phillips commented “To have HRH The Princess Royal supporting the challenge is a huge lift for the group and a great motivator. We’ve had wonderful support and the onus is now on us to make it to the North Pole and create history with a new world record whilst also raising £300,000 which will go directly towards helping disadvantaged children and young people throughout the UK and Ireland.”

“It’s an honour to be welcoming HRH The Princess Royal to this event. We’re grateful for her backing over the years, helping Wooden Spoon launch many projects, always giving her time so generously in order to support us.” Barry Monahan, Chief Operating Officer at Wooden Spoon.

Show your support for the challengers and text to donate ARCT01 £5 to 70070.