Sandbach RUFC is preparing to host an extraordinary world record attempt this summer to help raise vital awareness for mental health. Players will take on a gruelling challenge involving more than 24 hours of continuous rugby sevens at the club.
Event Details
The ambitious event will see two marathon matches, one men's and one women's, kick off at 12pm on Friday, July 24. The non-stop action will continue through the night until after 12pm on Saturday, July 25. Organisers aim to beat the current Guinness World Record of 24 hours and 30 minutes while raising funds for the charity LooseHeadz.
Charity Partnership
LooseHeadz works to save lives by placing a mental health champion at every rugby club in the world. The local club began its relationship with the charity in 2024 when it hosted the inaugural Bradley Peace Memorial Cup. The charity returned the following summer for a thrilling double-header featuring matches alongside family-friendly celebrations. Both of the previous events were organised by Mike Grapes from the club in conjunction with the charity team. Mike Grapes was later nominated for a community award in 2025 for his dedication to the cause.
Quotes from Organisers
Hannah Stallard, from LooseHeadz, said: "On the back of having hosted two hugely successful LooseHeadz RFC games over the last few years, Sandbach RUFC have shown their ongoing support for LooseHeadz and our work. Upon speaking to Mike and the rest of the team at Sandbach, their passion for hosting 24/7s became immediately apparent and made this an easy decision for the team. Their close proximity to Wilmslow where LooseHeadz was founded was another huge draw, giving us the opportunity to involve a number of those who have been with us since we launched in 2017."
Andrew Bird, from Sandbach RUFC, said: "Really privileged to be able to host such a great event, not only is it a potential world record but it also celebrates all the good work LooseHeadz does in the community. A lot of rugby players in the club have got an affiliation to LooseHeadz and some in a very personal way which makes this more special to us. To be on the world stage and to add some of Sandbach's uniqueness to it with our renowned hospitality is an honour. We are looking forward to welcoming people from the wider community and across the sport and regions to the club in July."
Event Format and Participants
Players, officials, volunteers and supporters will come together for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of sport. Each game will follow official sevens laws, with rolling substitutions allowing teams to keep the action going throughout the challenge. The event will also feature some major names from the rugby world, including former England international George Kruis. Former England Rugby Sevens captain Ollie Phillips is also confirmed to take part, with more names to be announced soon. Supporters and the wider community are invited to come down to the club in July to cheer on the teams.
For more information on the charity, visit looseheadz.co.uk and follow the campaign online.
