QUEUE TO HIT THE NET
Join the queue to score penalties at Bay stadium for good cause
WHAT started as a simple plan to raise funds for sporting facilities has become a major event to smash a Guinness world record.
Two childhood friends have come up with an exciting idea called “Smashing It”, in which they hope to break the record of 2 040 penalty kicks attempted in a day.
The event is scheduled for the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium next Saturday.
Stephen Morgan, 36, and Ian Stevenson, 35, of Hearts Football Club, are raring to go.
They hope to raise funds to build a multi-purpose centre for the club.
Hearts FC chairman Morgan said: “Ian came up with this brilliant idea last year.
“I went online and found that there was a standing record in the Guinness Book of Records for the most attempts at penalties.
“I sent them an e-mail last year and we forgot about it.
“It was only when they responded to my e-mail this year that we went ahead with the idea.
“We knocked on various doors for help.”
Morgan, a former teacher at Alexander Road High School, said the reply from Guinness came with rules – one person per penalty [no retakes] and the penalties must be consecutive – the maximum gap after each penalty taker must be 29 seconds.
“Now that meant we needed more people and a bigger venue,” he said.
“We have been lucky because at every door we had knocked on people welcomed the idea and were willing to help us.
“We have invited businesses, schools and sporting affiliations around the Bay to be part of the event and they have welcomed the invite,” Morgan said.
Coach Stevenson said this was not just a Hearts FC project but an event aimed at uniting Nelson Mandela Bay residents.
“People can register online on our website, www.smashingit.org
“Once you have registered, closer to the event you will receive an SMS informing you of the time slot for you to come and kick your penalty.
“Only people five years and older can kick the penalty.
“On the day there will be a fun zone for kids and those who have already kicked their penalty.
“We have also invited goalkeepers around the Bay from junior to senior level.
“This event is open to everyone – the aim to smash the record.”
Stevenson said those who did not manage to register were still welcome to come on the day as entry is free, with gates open from 9am to 9pm.