BIRMINGHAM and Solihull Bees were delighted to welcome South African adventurer Ron Rutland to their Portway home as part of his race to the Rugby World Cup.
Rutland is raising money for ChildFund Rugby by cycling from New Zealand to France on his way to delivering the referee’s whistle for the opening match of the Rugby World Cup next month.
And all in attendance were inspired by Rutland’s visit as the South African gave a presentation to Bees players, members and volunteers.
To date, Rutland has raised $35,606 (£28,277) cycling through New Zealand, South America, Mexico, USA and Europe and has faced difficulties on the road as well as physical exhaustion throughout his journey.
Rutland will be delivering the whistle in time for the opening game of the Rugby World Cup which takes place on Friday, September 8 when hosts France take on New Zealand at the Stade de France in Paris.
He began his journey at Eden Park in Auckland on November 7 last year and will have cycled 22,000km by the time he reaches Paris.
Rutland is now close to completing his 300-day journey taking in four continents and 25 countries.
To donate visit: www.racetorugbyworldcup.com
