T H E PI LG R I M R E V I E W 2016 / I S S U E 1
THE REIGATE CHARITY 7s 2016 A HUGE SUCCESS Sunday 6 March saw over 40 schools descend upon the RGS Hartswood for the 2016 Reigate Charity 7s sponsored by John Laing. Now established as one of the most prestigious and popular schools’ rugby tournaments for U18s in England, it attracts teams from across the country.
570 players 103 matches 20 referees
Over 2000 visitors enjoyed an action-packed tournament with passion, teamwork and skill on display. In the Boys’ Cup Final, a young and talented Reigate Grammar School side lost 34-14 to powerful Harrow School team that included Jacob Ford, the younger brother of George, current England fly-half. These young schoolboys were lucky to have the services of Wayne Barnes, England’s premier international referee and a week before taking charge of Scotland v France. Meanwhile, in the Girls’ competition SGS Filton produced a fantastic display of attacking rugby to overcome a valiant Christ’s Hospital side 49-5. “The Reigate Charity 7s brings together so many of the best features of today’s young people and we celebrate their talent, team work and personal dedication. Whilst winning is important, I welcome the traditional sporting values attributed to this great game and these cultural ingredients that makes it so special. As all of the schools represented at the tournament know, so much is learned on the sports field that can help prepare a young person for later life.” Shaun Fenton Headmaster, Reigate Grammar School “We were delighted to welcome England and Wasps star Joe Simpson along with International Rugby World Cup and Aviva Premiership referee, Wayne Barnes, as our special guests for the day. Now an established charity event, significant sums were raised for Breast Cancer Now and the RGS Foundation’s Changing Lives Campaign which looks to create life-changing educational opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. We are extremely grateful to all of our sponsors. Sport and charity have always had a close association with each other and this event was no exception, highlighted by the overwhelming support of all our commercial partners.” Jonny Hylton RGS Foundation, Tournament Director
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