Race to Rugby World Cup 2019

Three years ago, Ron Rutland and James Owens travelled across 23 countries from London to Tokyo, as they took part in the Race to RWC 2019, raising €123,696 for ChildFund Rugby. This amazing feat supported thousands of children and young people across Asia to learn valuable life skills, grow as leaders, and become role models in their communities. 

Race to Rugby World Cup 2021

In 2022, Ron teamed up with Adam Nunn and together they cycled their way from Japan to New Zealand, in celebration of Rugby World Cup 2021 and in support of ChildFund Rugby.

On October 8th 2022, the duo arrived to Eden Park, just in time to deliver the opening game’s whistle to referee Maggie Cogger-Orr to officially kick-off Rugby World Cup 2021. 

Spanning 209 days, 11 nations, and over 16,500km, the Race to Rugby World Cup 2021 successfully raised more than 15,000 USD for ChildFund Rugby, the tournament’s Principal Charity. The journey was supported by World Rugby, DHL, and the global rugby family who cheered for them all the way to the finish line.

Race to Rugby World Cup 2023
Following the wrap-up of what was a historical RWC 2021 in New Zealand, the Race to Rugby World Cup adventure continued!

From Eden Park, New Zealand on 12 November 2022, Ron jumped back on his bike to Auckland airport, flew to Chile and embarked on another remarkable 300-day adventure, pedalling tirelessly to France for the opener of Rugby World Cup 2023.

This trip included Pedal to Paris – the final leg of Race to Rugby World Cup 2023 – bringing together over 180 ChildFund Rugby supporters for a 3-day cycle from London to Paris, with the opening game’s whistle safely delivered yet again!

Hats off to Ron, and to everyone who played a role in this extraordinary journey. To the cyclists that joined along the way (a special thanks to James Owens and Adam Nunn!), the many clubs and Unions that took time to host, and the individuals that went out of their way to support Ron on his travels – all have shown how sport delivered with purpose can bring people together.

We would also like to acknowledge the support of the many, many individuals who fundraised and gave generously. This support allows ChildFund Rugby’s partnerships to continue to grow their impact!

Thank you to everyone.

For more details about Race to Rugby World Cup 2023, see below:

From Auckland to Paris, the incredible 22,000 kilometres bicycle ride to Rugby World Cup France 2023 continues raising funds for social impact through ChildFund Rugby

Ron Rutland nears the end of “remarkable” Race to Rugby World Cup 2023