Ever had that one mate who reckons they're the best at something, so you decide to prove them wrong? Well, a bunch of absolute legends from a Sydney touch rugby group are taking that ethos to the next level — and are hoping to break a world record, all for a good cause thanks to Beyond Blue.
The Tama Touch Group are putting their bodies on the line to break a Guinness World Record. Their mission? To play the 'Longest Non-Stop Game of Beach Touch Rugby' and dethrone the current record holders—the UK’s Sandbaggers Rugby Club. Nothing gets us going like a rugby rivalry, and this is truly one for the history books.
The record attempt is kicking off from September 3 to 4 this year, and they're aiming to beat the current record of a staggering 34 hours and 6 seconds! Sounds like a lot (it is) but these lads have been preparing for over two decades.
It all started back in 2001 in the beachside suburb of Tamarama, when a group of mates and self-proclaimed “‘could-have-been’ rugby superstars” started playing to just get outside and have a laugh. Over time, those games became more than just a kickaround — they became a safe space where the boys could talk and support each other through life's challenges, something that’s all too important as we continue to grapple with men’s mental health.
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They might be playing touch, but they're actually tackling a much bigger issue. As they push through more than 34 hours of non-stop footy, they're raising funds and awareness for Beyond Blue. These legends know a game of touch is more than just a game — it's a way for a group of mates to look out for each other, on and off the field. Their goal is to raise a massive $340,000 AUD, and they need all the help they can to do it.
“This isn’t just about breaking a record,” said committee member John Nelligan.
“It’s about showing what happens when blokes show up for each other. We’ve built something special over the years, and now we’re using it to make a difference.
"With an average age of 50, we’ve got more grey hairs than game plans and more tape than talent. We’ve got dad bods, dodgy hammies and a training regime built on banter and bruises, but we’re out to show that although age has stiffened our joints, it won’t stop us chasing a world record for a good cause.”
So, get around the boys and chuck a few bucks their way. It's a win-win — we get to see an Aussie team smash a world record, and we get to support a seriously good cause. It all kicks off on Bondi Beach at 6am on Wednesday, September 3.
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You can learn more info, and donate to this great cause, via Beyond Blue’s website.
Jackson Langford