"We've got a challenge to tackle and you can help us meet it!"

On the 27th May 2005, 20 RFU volunteers will be embarking upon an expedition to the base camp of Mount Everest, where they will attempt to break the world record for holding the highest ever game of tag rugby. All the money raised from the expedition will go towards two important and worthwhile charities: SPIRE and Show Racism the Red Card.

SPIRE is the official RFU charity that assists players who have suffered permanent total disability through rugby and is currently supporting the needs of around 115 disabled ex-players.

Show Racism the Red Card (SRTRC) is a charity which aims to combat racism through education and the use of professional sportsmen as role models. Footballers have shown the way by making a stand against racism and now the RFU and players at all levels within the game of rugby are actively involved in the campaign - vigorously supporting the aims of SRTRC.

A major part of the fundraising will be a CHARITY GALA DINNER held at Twickenham Stadium on Thursday 31st March. All of the Zurich Premiership Rugby Clubs have supported the appeal by each sending one of their players along to the dinner and donating a signed rugby shirt to be auctioned on the night. In addition to the Zurich Premiership players there will be a host of other sporting celebrities present to show their support. Further details and a booking form for the dinner can be found at http://www.rfu.com/pdfs/ersc/CharityDinnerFlyer.pdf (please copy and paste into your browser) Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor us Please note: Show Racism The Red Card and SPIRE are currently not able to accept gift aid but we are working hard to rectify this. So please sponsor us now! Many thanks for your support The RFU charity challenge team.