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Rugby Union News: Craig Maxwell’s Inspirational Wales Coast Path Walk Unites the “Rugby Family” for a Worthy Cause
Published: 17:08 BST, 6 March 2024 | Updated: 19:12 BST, 6 March 2024
The notion of the “rugby union family” – the idea that the sport fosters a collective spirit and shared values among its participants – is one that is well-understood by those within the rugby union community. While some may dismiss this notion, the story of Craig Maxwell’s recent fundraising efforts serves as a powerful testament to the truth of this concept.
As the former Welsh Rugby Union and Six Nations commercial director, Maxwell has been battling stage four, incurable and inoperable lung cancer since 2022. Undeterred, he has embarked on a heroic 780-mile walking challenge along the Wales Coast Path to raise funds for the Maxwell Family Genomics Fund, with the goal of supporting cancer diagnosis, research, innovation and treatment in Wales.
The “rugby union family” has truly come together in an incredible show of support for Maxwell’s cause. Over 600 walkers have joined him on various legs of the journey, including former players, coaches, administrators, and colleagues from the Welsh Rugby Union and Six Nations. The outpouring of support has been “just amazing,” with the challenge raising an astonishing £1.2 million to date.
On Monday, MailSport joined Maxwell and a 30-strong contingent for a 20-mile leg of the walk in Pembrokeshire, which faced challenging conditions of driving rain, hail, and high winds. Despite the physical toll, Maxwell’s indefatigable spirit and positive attitude shone through, as he checked on the well-being of his fellow walkers and maintained his focus on the mission at hand.
The walk will culminate on Sunday when Maxwell and his family deliver the match ball for the Six Nations match between the Wales national rugby union team and France at Principality Stadium. This promises to be a poignant and emotional moment, as Maxwell’s efforts have not only raised substantial funds but also served as a powerful testament to the unity and strength of the “rugby union family.”
As Wales head coach Warren Gatland, who worked alongside Maxwell during one of the Welsh Rugby Union’s most successful periods, commented, “What Craig is doing is amazing and an inspiration to so many people. The whole national team is behind him 100 percent.”
The resilience, camaraderie, and shared purpose embodied by Maxwell’s journey are a testament to the enduring power of the “rugby union family” to come together and make a meaningful difference. It is a story that will undoubtedly inspire rugby union enthusiasts and fans around the world, and one that reinforces the sport’s unique ability to foster a collective spirit and drive positive change.
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