St Albans students’ attempt to break world record for consecutive rugby passes

Teachers and pupils from St Columba’s College are going to try and make the most rugby ball passes in a row - the current Guinness world record is 279.

A pass has to travel a distance of 5m, be going backwards, and satisfy rugby regulations.

Money is also being raised at the event for a home in the Philippines called IconHope. The home is run by the founders of the school, Brothers of the Sacred Heart, and was created in 2013 after Typhoon Heiyan to rehabilitate Filipino children on the streets.

Director of Sport at the school, Ed Lowe, said: “I think it’s a fantastic opportunity for the Columba’s community to come together, raise awareness for the charity, and play rugby.”

He is hopeful: “We definitely stand a chance, I am looking forward to it.”

Seventeen-year-old head boy James Bromfield, along with deputy head boys Oliver Nicholson and Nic Buxton, have organised the event. James said: “We have quite a strong rugby squad at the school but it’s a record for a reason - but we will be practicing in games sessions so the boys will be used to it.

“Obviously we want to break the world record but we take our community quite seriously so everyone in prep [the school] will have some kind of involvement, we want to make it as big a community event as possible.”

Students range from age four to 18 - all 700 of them will get at least one pass. With that many participants, James is hopeful that at least one row of 280 passes can be achieved.

He said he hopes to raise £10,000 and create a “lasting legacy” at the school.

“Everyone will have played rugby at some point and everyone is behind it so no-one will be laughed at if mistakes are made.”

He added: “I can pass a ball five meters but I not saying that I am that good at rugby.”

James, Oliver and Nic are looking for sponsorship and independent adjudicators. Email events@stcolumbascollege.org to help.

The event is happening on November 22. To donate and find out more, click here.