A team of former international rugby players will attempt to break the world record for rowing 100km in September, in aid of the IRFU Charitable Trust.

The mixed-gender team includes ex-players such as Malcolm O'Kelly, David Wallace, and David Quinlan as well as rowers like Helen Hannigan, Sanita Puspure, and Eimear Moran.

The players said they wanted to undertake a very difficult challenge as a mark of respect and solidarity with former teammates who were injured playing rugby.

Great to have the launch of the third World Rowing Record (over 40’s) for a group of ex International Rugby Players and...

Posted by IRFU Charitable Trust on Thursday, July 4, 2024

The IRFU Charitable Trust currently assists 36 seriously injured former players and their families, and the team hopes to raise much-needed funds with the world record attempt.

The IRFU Charitable Trust Indoor Rowing Team currently holds the over-40s world record over 100km with an average time of one minute, 24 seconds per 500 metres.

They also hold the 24-hour world record after covering 470km at an average 500m pace of one minute, 30 seconds.

The team will attempt the mixed 100km record on 28 September.

The full men's team includes captain Kevin McLaughlin, O'Kelly, Wallace, and Quinlan as well as Paul Wallace, Chris Pim, Colin McEntee, Nigel Osborne, Paddy Johns, Des Dillon, Bob Casey, Michael Swift, Liam Toland, Steve Rooney and Niall Treston. 

The team is managed by former Leinster captain Kelvin Leahy.  The women's team includes captain Hannigan, Puspure, Moran, Colleen Farrell and Stephanie Corcoran. Prof Fred Wood will act as medic.

To donate, visit IRFUCharitableTrust.enthuse.com.

*This article was originally published on BusinessPlus.ie.