by Callum Ellis
A PONTYPRIDD-based cancer charity are aiming to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest ever 11-a-side football match.
Kicking off Against Cancer, which formed three years, are aiming to play for a remarkable 135 consecutive hours later this year.
The event is set to kick-off at the House of Sport in Leckwith, Cardiff, at 8pm on July 14, with the full-time whistle scheduled to blow six days later at 11am.
Heartbeat United FC currently hold the record after completing a match lasting a staggering 108 hours and two minutes in May 2016.
The organisation was setup after trustee Ben Banks’ sister Vicki was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer.
He decided to get together with a group a friends and take on the challenge for the longest marathon playing indoor football, which they managed to achieve with a feat of 36 hours, and in the process, raised £13,000.
However, the charity are hoping to go one step further this summer with 36 players set to participate in the match.
Trustee Rob Hopkins, who volunteers his time alongside six others, said the team are working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the challenge.
“As a group we are really excited about the event,” said Hopkins.
“We are currently working tirelessly through a long list of things we need to make the event a success. We are all volunteers so run the charity while all having full time jobs.
“Setting up such an event comes at a cost, but by engaging with local and national sponsors, we hope to be able to raise a significant sum of money for the charity and also increase our exposure.
“Our sole aim as a charity is to bring some cheer to cancer patients by funding trips and weekends away for them and their families. All of the money raised will allow us to help more cancer patients.
“I personally find it so rewarding to see some of the photographs and quotes from people we have helped which makes all of the hard work so worthwhile.”
The organisation are relying on a number of volunteers to make the event a success, and Hopkins pleas for those interested in assisting in the record attempt to contact the charity.
“We need qualified referees, officials, witnesses and runners who can help ensure that the event runs smoothly so anyone who is willing to spare some time for a great cause and be a formal part of a Guinness World Record then please get in touch with us.
“If any companies can offer support however big or small we’d love to hear from them. We have some sponsorship packages available but also need support for kits, balls, drinks, food, electronic clocks and cameras.
“However, if you’d just like to donate some money then every penny is appreciated and used to help cancer patients.”
You can stay updated with Kicking Off Against Cancer’s latest work by using the links below.
Website: www.kickingoffagainstcancer.org
Twitter: @_KOAC
Facebook: Kicking Off Against Cancer
