Whistles, Warriors, and Women Who Rock: Counting Down to the Ride of the Year!

Well, blink and you'll miss it...we’re under two months away from this year’s big event! Time’s ticking faster than a winger on a breakaway, and August 9th will be here before you can say, “Pass the protein bars!”

As I sit here on June 19th, pretending not to panic about the dwindling training days, I’m also feeling incredibly excited. Why? Because the A team is back, baby! And what a team it is! Part reunion, part dream squad, all heart. Returning champions Fiona, Cat, Teresa, Cathy, and the indomitable Paul are back in action. These are the kinds of humans that restore your faith in, well… humans.

And that’s not even counting the behind-the-scenes magic-makers, the volunteers, the supporters, the full-hearted souls like the Adopstar crew, who make this journey more than just miles on a map. Last year, some folks tried to flip the script and inject some negativity, but plot twist: it didn’t work. This year, we’re doubling down on the joy, the camaraderie, and everything that makes women’s rugby the powerhouse of inspiration that it is.

Last years mission carries on, and this time, the mission is clearerthan ever: to shine a dazzling spotlight on women's rugby and everything glorious about it! Strength, smarts, skill, and spirit. These athletes are not just players; they're unstoppable forces of nature. And the people working in and around rugby? Committed, kind, and just a joy to know.

Speaking of amazing people, shoutout to Theresa, Paul, Becky, Kevin, Ali, Michelle ... honestly, the list is so long it’s starting to sound like an acceptance speech. But that’s the point...rugby has given me a tribe of incredible, genuine friends. (Sorry for the names I've forgotten... It really would be a very long blog... but you know who you are!)

At the heart of this journey is Childfund-rugby. The more I learn, the more I’m blown away. It’s not just a charity, it’s a global game-changer. Their work touches lives in ways that are deeply, tangibly transformative. And hearing the stories of children and adults, whose lives have changed... Genuinely overwhelming, in the best way.

A massive thank you to Sue Darrington for introducing me to ChildFund and for being one of the unsung heroes behind the scenes. Legends like her keep this engine running.

This year’s road crew? It’s a rolling bubble of sunshine: my brilliant wife Cat, the ever-reliable Paul (back again with driving duties), and the fabulous Halley, who’s joining us for the full 10-day extravaganza. It’s basically a party on wheels, fueled by caffeine, determination, and snacks.

Yes, we’ve got exciting plans...no, I can’t tell you all of them yet. But let’s just say, there are some very cool collabs coming up with some of the teams involved. Watch this space.

And here’s the kicker: I’ll be carrying The Whistle. Not just any whistle, the Rugby World Cup whistle. Previously carried by the legendary Ron Rutland across multiple tournaments, I’ll be the first new bearer in years. No pressure, right? Just casually holding legacy in my backpack.

All I can say is: I’ll give it everything I’ve got. For Ron, for the game, for ChildFund, and for every single person who believes in what we’re doing. So, here’s to wheels, amazing people, and a beautiful game. The countdown is on... and I’m ready.