Marathon effort in aid of injured rugby players’ foundation
A SOLICITOR swapped his courtroom suit for running gear to tackle a marathon in aid of a rugby players’ charity.
Roger Badman, who works at Macclesfield Magistrates court for the Oakes Partnership, has raised more than £2,000 in sponsorship for the RFU Injured Players Foundation after running the London Marathon.
He played rugby for many years and wanted to do something to help the foundation in its work supporting players who have suffered serious injuries and maintaining safety in the game.
Roger came 23,868th in the race with a time of four hours 38 secs – 622nd in his age category.
He said: “I’m not a natural runner but gave it my best shot and mission completed.
“I had many years’ pleasure from rugby both on and off the pitch and wanted to put a bit back by running for the charity that provides support for those whose playing days were so suddenly and tragically cut short.
“I used to play at Fleetwood, Nottingham Moderns and almost into my fifties, Crewe and Nantwich – all clubs with true spirit.
“A young fly half and centre sadly broke his neck in several places last year and I hope that monies raised will help not only him and his rehabilitation but also his family and others similarly affected by serious injury.
“His life-changing injury, followed by his determination and enthusiasm for life, have made so many people realise that the world of rugby is quite a bit more than putting on a pair of boots and chasing a funny shaped ball for 80 minutes on a damp Saturday afternoon.”
Earlier this year Roger met Prince Harry when he and 70 runners were invited to Twickenham to train and look behind the scenes.
He said: “It was a great day and Prince Harry personally wished us all the best.”
Go to JustGiving/ RogerBadman to donate to Roger’s campaign.