Drum roll please)….I am back with a new challenge and an AMAZING cause.

This year, Beckenham Rugby Club celebrates being 125 years old. This is 125 years of being a hub for the local community that welcomes everyone young and old.

My first experience of BRFC was when I was taken down to the club by Matt Dickens after losing a bet. The first person I had the pleasure of meeting was Kenny Hill. He asked what position I played. I told him that I had played hooker but could no longer play that position due to an injury. First week over and I am informed I am playing hooker for the 2’s and so began my journey at BRFC.

I can honestly say that it has been one of the better decisions I have made in life, despite the numerous sprained body parts, body shavings and too many other mishaps along the way that have occurred during my time at the club.

The club is a truly special place helping people from all walks of life to keep fit, build friendships, become part of a team and learn some life skills along the way. It really is a fantastic melting pot of people from all walks of life – a massive dysfunctional family which holds its doors open to everyone!

To keep the family together, there is a huge amount of work that is done to ensure everything works – from looking after the grounds and buildings, creating programmes for the juniors, to organising games, washing the kit, as well as raising much needed funds. We have a lovely group of volunteers which run the day-to-day (extra helpers always welcomed!!).

In celebration of 125 fantastic years of BRFC and in anticipation of another successful 125 years, we are planning to extend our clubhouse to keep it as a central part of the community.

It takes significant costs to run a rugby club of our size, so fundraising is essential to keep it running and updated. Due to our unique anniversary we have created the 125 clubhouse build – and this is where we need your help.

To help us raise some funds the club have convinced me that I should do a 125km challenge in recognition of the 125th year! I’ll be swimming 1.9km, cycling 102km and finishing with a 21.1km run just for good measure. As much as I like to torture my body, I am hoping to raise at least £10,000 by doing this and so I am asking if you could dig into your pocket and help support us.

It would mean a huge amount to everyone at the club.

Date of the challenge is 19th October. You’re welcome to join me for any of the individual disciplines – the support would be amazing!! I’ll be running back into the club in time to watch (not play – at least I don’t think I’m on the team sheet…yet!) our BRFC 1st XV playing against Westcombe Park so please come down and say hi and enjoy the game and massive party after!!

In anticipation of your generous support, a heartfelt Thank you from me and everyone at BRFC!