As some of you may know, this rugby season I split my time between Portsmouth RFC and Petersfield RFC before the chewing gum holding my body together broke again and one of my bicep femoris muscles detached itself, making taking the dog for a walk an emotional experience.

Other than me, things that Portsmouth and Petersfield rugby clubs have in common are: they share the same initials (PRFC), they are both in London 3 South West and members of both clubs have held charity events to raise money for a very noble, local charity – The Rosemary Foundation.

So whilst out injured I have been looking at sensible injury rehabilitation whilst trying to do something a bit more meaningful to help others. Luckily those nice Royal Marine chaps have come up with an alternative form of physio called the "Since 1664" yomp:  

“The “Since 1664” Yomp is a unique  charity endurance challenge of epic proportions. This charity challenge is that tough that no serving or former Royal Marine who has
attempted it has suggested it is easier than any of the famous Royal Marines Commando Tests. Departing from the centre of Winchester soon after first light on Saturday 26th May 18 and following the official 100 mile (160K) route, finishing just beyond the bottom of Beachy Head after Yomping a full 166.4 KMs. Be under no illusion that this is “just” a stroll in the park, even though it literally is a stroll of the whole of the stunningly beautiful
South Downs National Park!  The climb (and decent) is the equivalent of 40% of Mount Everest but over 100 miles and in 36 hours. Whilst it is a huge physical challenge, it is an even more immense mental test.  One foot in front of the other for about 36 hours and getting on for 1/4 Million steps.” Check out www.since1664.com

Just what my doctor ordered!

A team of 4 of us from Petersfield Rugby Club are hitting the hills to raise money for The Rosemary Foundation which is a Charity providing a ‘Hospice at Home’ service in Petersfield and the surrounding towns and villages. It is intended to help patients in the latter stage of life threatening conditions. This service offers practical help, nursing care, emotional and counseling support, together with day and night sitting service and trained nurses available 24 hours a day. Care continues through the first year of bereavement.
The Rosemary Foundation receives no statutory funding but provides a valuable
service at no cost to the patient or their family. Other than being a great, local charity, it has a special connection with me due to my mum's involvement supporting the charity and the patients it cares for other the years.

Please
help me and the rest of the team raise funds for The Rosemary Foundation and
some of the other charities supported by the Since 1664 Event.