Old Belvedere To Host Christchurch-Japan Charity Match
On Friday week (April 29), two Ireland and New Zealand invitational teams will compete in a special match at Old Belvedere’s Anglesea Road ground (kick-off 7pm) to raise funds for those affected by the recent disasters in New Zealand and Japan.
Current Leinster consultant scrum coach Greg Feek, who is a former All Black, and fellow New Zealanders Phil Werahiko, the head coach of Ulster Bank League finalists Old Belvedere, and Andy Wood (Blackrock College) are supporting the event.
The charity match is being organised by Kiwi Ex-Pats Abroad Ireland (www.keanewzealand.com) and the New Zealand Ireland Association (www.newzealand.ie).
It is kindly being sponsored by Toyota Ireland, Agra and Toll. The game itself will get underway at 7pm at Anglesea Road, Old Belvedere’s home ground.
Proceeds from the event will go to the Irish Red Cross’ New Zealand Earthquake and Japan Tsunami appeals to help those affected by the recent tragedies in the countries.
The city of Christchurch was struck by a 6.3 magnitude earthquake on February 22, causing widespread devastation to the city. The quake caused significant loss of life and injury as well as widespread damage.
Just two-and-a-half weeks later on March 11, a massive earthquake measuring 8.9 struck off the eastern coast of Japan. It triggered a ten-metre Tsunami. This has resulted in approximately 26,000 people being recorded as missing or dead.
KEA Ireland and the NZIA are inviting you turn up and show your support for New Zealand and Japan on Friday, April 29.
There will be raffles and a good old New Zealand barbie on the night. Former Leinster and Ireland hooker Bernard Jackman will be coaching the Ireland invitation team, while Feek and Wood will take charge of the New Zealand side.
Tickets for the game will be available at the gate at a cost of €;10 for adults and €;5 for children (Under-13s).