The Big Green Clash: A Revolutionary Eco-Friendly Rugby Event
On September 8, 2024, Richmond Athletic Ground will host “The Big Green Clash,” a pioneering event highlighting the vital role of sport in fostering an eco-friendly and compassionate future. Leading this initiative is the Green Gazelles Rugby Club, the world’s first earth-friendly and plant-powered rugby team. This invitational club, boasting over 250 players, aims to promote sustainability, compassion towards animals, and environmental awareness through their love of rugby.
The Big Green Clash promises more than just a rugby match; it is a platform for critical discussions about the environment and sport. Before the game, prominent environmental, sporting, and health enthusiasts will convene for a Sports Climate Summit, sparking essential debates and sharing insights. The event will also feature a family-friendly Eco Village offering delicious food, sustainable products, information stands, artisan treats, and more.
The highlight of the day will be the rugby match between the Green Gazelles and Richmond Rugby. While the match is friendly, both teams will fiercely compete for the prestigious Earth Shield, presented by Heather Mills. The Green Gazelles squad will include several ex-professional players and celebrities, adding to the excitement.
Brendon Bale, founder of the Green Gazelles and event organizer, emphasizes the club’s commitment to raising environmental awareness through rugby. “Our mission is to promote a more compassionate, eco-friendly, and sustainable future through rugby,” he states. “On and off the pitch, we can tackle climate change by promoting more sustainable products and practices, eating more plant-based foods, and raising funds for earth-friendly charities.”
All profits from the event, organized in collaboration with Word Forest Org, Pledgeball, and Loosehedz, will support various projects aimed at positive environmental change. The event will also launch the “Give it a Try” campaign, encouraging individuals to make small changes for a greater collective impact.
Tracey West, co-founder of Word Forest, expresses her enthusiasm about participating in The Big Green Clash. “We have to use all the tools in the box to evoke swift environmental behavior change to support and protect our planet. I cannot think of a more convivial way to raise awareness of what our world needs right now than through a spectacular, sporting event.”
Nick Preston, Chairman of Richmond Rugby, shares this sentiment. “Richmond Rugby is proud to lend our support to The Big Green Clash. Sustainability in sport is becoming a critical issue, and we look forward to hosting this key event in the autumn.”
In addition to the main rugby match, the event will feature several unique activities. Kate Strong will cycle from Wales to London to deliver the match ball, while the “Run to Richmond” challenge, led by United We Are, encourages people to get active. Expect appearances from ex-international players like Juan Pablo Socino (ex-Argentina/Saracens) and other notable figures. F
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