Eleven intrepid walking rugby players from Reigate and the surrounding area headed west to Bristol recently to take part in what is widely regarded as the largest Walking Rugby festival in the world. Hosted by our friends at Kingswood RFC, the event brought together an incredible 52 teams, playing 156 matches over the course of a memorable day.

And what a day it was.

With temperatures reaching 33°C, players faced a stern test of endurance as much as rugby ability. Thankfully, a light breeze across the Bristol countryside offered occasional relief, but water bottles were arguably as important as rugby boots throughout the day.

Walking Rugby Continues to Grow

Events like this demonstrate just how quickly Walking Rugby is growing across the UK.
What started as a way to keep former players involved in the sport has evolved into a thriving community game that combines competition, friendship, fitness and inclusivity.

The sight of 52 teams travelling from all corners of the country shows that Walking Rugby is no longer a niche pastime – it's one of rugby's success stories.

Representing Old Reigatians & Reigate were:

S Pilgrim (Captain), R Boon, K Cheema, K Evans, M Bignell, M Creed, P Smith, J Lewis, R Perkins, R Clarke and J Bunting.

The Rugby

Old Reigatians & Reigate were drawn into a competitive pool featuring:

Langport & District WRFC
Cric Crocs Perkies (Crickhowell RFC)
Kingswood Queens
Salisbury RFC
Birmingham Civil Hurricanes
Witney Wizards
Match 1 – Langport & District

The tournament started in fine style with a well-contested and good-humoured encounter. Played in the true spirit of Walking Rugby, Reigate opened their account with a victory.

Result: Win

Match 2 – Cric Crocs Perkies

One of the games of the day. Both sides moved the ball well and played expansive rugby. Reigate found themselves 3-0 down at half-time but mounted an impressive comeback to close the gap to 3-2 in the dying moments.

Result: Narrow Loss

Match 3 – Kingswood Queens

Another excellent contest played with great sportsmanship. Reigate returned to winning ways with a strong performance.

Result: Win

Match 4 – Salisbury RFC

A closely fought match against a well-organised Salisbury side. Both teams created opportunities, but Reigate's trademark open style and ability to find space eventually proved decisive.

Result: Win

Match 5 – Birmingham Civil Hurricanes

Probably the toughest defensive unit faced all day. The Hurricanes restricted space expertly and pinned Reigate back for long periods. Despite a determined effort, Reigate fell just short.

Result: Narrow Loss

Match 6 – Witney Wizards

By the final game, the effects of six matches in scorching temperatures were apparent across all teams. Nevertheless, both sides produced an entertaining contest, with Reigate finishing the day on a high.

Result: Win

Tournament Summary

Played: 6
Won: 4
Lost: 2
Drawn: 0

Tries For: 21
Tries Against: 11

A highly respectable return against strong opposition and further evidence of the quality of Walking Rugby being played at Old Reigatians & Reigate.

More Than Just Results

As always, Walking Rugby is about much more than wins and losses. The camaraderie, laughter, friendship and shared love of the game were evident throughout the day. Whether on the pitch, around the refreshments tent or exchanging stories with players from across the country, the festival showcased everything that makes Walking Rugby such a special and increasingly popular sport.

Thank You

Special thanks to:

Jo for transporting equipment
Steve Pilgrim for his leadership and captaincy
Richard Perkins for transporting the appropriate livestock
Mike K for organising the day
Mike C for keeping the records straight
Keith Evans for the singing and diplomatic cross-border relations
And all the players who made the trip such an enjoyable occasion

Finally, a huge thank you to Kingswood RFC for hosting a superb event.

Organising 52 teams, 156 matches and countless participants is no small feat, yet the day ran brilliantly. Their continued support and promotion of Walking Rugby helps ensure the sport continues to thrive.

A magnificent festival, a fantastic advert for Walking Rugby, and a reminder that rugby is truly a game for life