Last week, a team of 38 climbers not only reached the summit of Kilimanjaro, but managed to play the world’s highest rugby league match along the way.
The climb and the match were staged to raise funds and awareness for the Steve Prescott Foundation.
The team included various former rugby league legends, including Andrian Morley and Lee Briers, as well as BBC journalist Beccy Meehan and Sky Sports’ Angela Powers.
On arrival at Crater Camp, which sits at 5760 metres and just 200 metres below Kilimanjaro’s summit, the climbers divided into two teams and played a full 80 minute match refereed by RFL referee Robert Hicks. The final score was ten all.
Afterwards, Lee Briers said “that was the hardest thing I’ve ever done and quite possibly the hardest thing I’ll ever do.”
Steve Prescott Foundation Trustee and event leader said on social media:
“Made it to the summit. 35 out of 38 made it. Played full 80 mins rugby. In so much pain it’s untrue. Cannot wait to get home. I’m in bits. Never ever again.”
Each climber raised at least £4,000 for the charities of the Steve Prescott Foundation, which include the Christie Hospital in Manchester.
Congratulations to all for the mighty effort and new record. Once again, we are so glad this magnificent mountain was the backdrop for this incredible and important feat.