The Walk4Matt 2011, in aid of the Matt Hampson Foundation kicks off on 20 May and this is your chance to get involved as there are still places on the trip – your chance to join some of the legends of the game, and help Matt at the same time.
Matt says: “Since my accident in 2005 I have received tremendous support from all walks of life. I now feel that I’m in a position where I can help others, not just with similar needs to myself but with sporting career ending illnesses or injury. The main aim of the foundation is to inspire and support young people seriously injured through sport. I feel with my experiences and contacts, I know better than most what people need, not just financially but mentally. Initially, It is very difficult for a lot of young people to come to terms with their new life and find a new niche, almost having to reinvent themselves.”
The 3rd annual Walk4Matt is 110 miles along the Grand Union Canal towpath from Rugby to Twickenham, arriving for the Aviva Premiership Final on Saturday 28th May. Walkers from all the Premiership Clubs complete the walk supported by a fleet of narrow boats decked in the Clubs colours.
Players involved – Harry Ellis, Geordan Murphy, Phil Vickery, Graham Rowntree, Andy Gommarsall, Jason Leonard, Freddie Tuilagi, Bob Casey, Dan Hipkiss, Manu Tuilagi, Alex Tuilagi, Andy Goode, James Buckland plus many more.
Key Stops/Events
Saturday 21st – Heart of England Pub, Weedon Sunday – Barley Mow, Cosgrove– Live Music Monday – Soulbury Three Locks Tuesday 24th – Celebrity Cricket match – Tring CC
Wednesday – Kings Lodge Hotel – live Music Thursday – Swan and Bottle, Uxbrdge – Quiz Night Friday – Sun Inn, Richmond – Presentation Night Saturday – Barmy Arms and Twickenham
Matt Hampson Foundation
As an emerging talent in the world of rugby, Matt Hampson’s world was rocked by a serious spinal injury sustained while training with England U21s. The shock would last months, the impact forever. Paralyzed from the neck down Matt faced the toughest challenge of his life.
Drawing on the passion, grit and steely determination that defined him as a player, Matt saw his accident not as an end, but as a new beginning. Through the Matt Hampson Foundation, Matt offers hope and inspiration to young people with similar injuries, sharing his experiences and devoting his life to raising vital funds for those in need of support.
So why not get involved now?
Contact – Roy Jackson Chairman of Trustees – roy@hambo.co.uk – 07793 381033 Tommy Cawston Executive – tommy@hambo.co.uk – 07899 915701