With the exceptionally wet weather Rugby has been difficult or impossible at Steel Cross for some time and it seems that resuming Walking Rugby at home is still some weeks away. However, last Friday night a small band of hardy souls travelled to Horsham to participate in a 6 team tournament taking advantage of the all weather pitch and the excellent lights that Horsham RFC have.

Due to the event clashing with half-term many Crowborough regulars were unavailable. Not wanting to miss out our intrepid bunch joined with others keen to play but without a team. A very creditable effort on the part of all.

The organisation was superb each team playing 5 games in a round-robin on three pitches with all games having independent referees. The games schedule was intense, with our first starting at 7p.m. and the last game planned to end just before 9 p.m.

Walking rugby is made up of two 7-minute halves with a two-minute half time break. Having not played for three months, we were understandably a little rusty when we started but we grew in confidence and effectiveness as the match schedule progressed. With the support the various players from other teams Crowborough were always able to field a full team of 7, but unfortunately we did not have any subs and so at the end of the competition all players were showing signs of the evenings exertions. ‘Knackered’ I think is the correct expression. Our guest players certainly helped our quality and provided some learning for all of us. Tracey was one of our stars but in her exuberance had one try disallowed for jumping over the line, no jumping in walking rugby, and with her second attempt at scoring she crossed the line as the lights went out, as the 9 o'clock deadline was reached.

The evening concluded with the usual post match camaraderie in the bar where a tasty curry and a few beers were enjoyed by all. Our hardy bunch retuned home injury free thankfully having enjoyed what was an excellent evening of Walking Rugby.

Keep your eyes on this website for updates for when Walking Rugby recommences at Steel Cross.