The ‘unusual’ nature of our challenge hit home as we were leaving the SWALEC Stadium in Cardiff, following England Women’s victory against Australia in the final Ashes T20 Cricket International. Which is when the high value of it hit home too.
In quick succession, an Exit Gate attendant, bus driver and car park marshal asked us if everything was ok? When we replied that we appreciated their concern, and that all was fine, they each gave the same incredulous response – “But, you do realise that the England versus Australia Men’s match is taking place now?”
Whilst no offence was offered, nor taken, it highlighted that our 30 day initiative to attend 30 women’s sports was novel to many, including a lack of general understanding that watching high performance athletes, fully committed to being the best they can be, brings huge pleasure. Irrespective of the athlete’s gender.
We also discovered that there was no central calendar for women’s sport, and that web sites were sometimes out-of-date and often incomplete. But with the support of individuals and governing bodies the list soon took shape so that we could kick-off the 30 day period on August 28th.
That first weekend we found ourselves covering over 750 miles, taking in England Hockey’s semi-final victory in London, Manchester City Women’s win against Liverpool Ladies, GB Women’s Wheelchair Basketball success against Italy in Worcester and England Cricket’s defeat of Australia.
As well as enjoying some fabulous sporting drama, we’ve been privileged to spend time talking with outstanding athletes including Jordanne Whiley (Wheelchair Tennis) and Kelly Edwards (Judo) who have consistent challenges related to lack of funding and organisations willing to invest as sponsors.
We encourage you to take a positive step forward. Make a difference. Help level the playing field by investing in women’s sport. Whether £20K to sponsor Whiley or Edwards on their roads to Rio, or find your local sports club and get involved.
So far, our 30 day initiative has highlighted that there are many opportunities to make a difference, but not enough people and organisations willing to match the commitment of the athletes taking part.
