Spotlight: The Hairy Hikers, University of Nottingham Students Walk to Twickenham for Movember

With November in full swing and Movember fundraising happening across campuses around the country, we caught up with the University of Nottingham Men’s Rugby Union Club to spotlight their activities off the pitch and onto the open road.

Five University of Nottingham students have taken on an inspiring challenge, walking from the university’s Highfields rugby pitches all the way to Allianz Twickenham in support of Movember.

Calling themselves The Hairy Hikers, students Sam Waters, Tom Pasmore, Will Newman, Jaime Bernaldo de Quiros and Will Craven set off on their journey on the morning of Saturday 8 November, with the goal of arriving at Twickenham in time for the England vs. New Zealand Quilter Nations Series match the following Saturday on 15 November.

Travelling over 140 miles in only seven days, averaging about 20 miles daily on foot, is no small feat. Battling questionable footpaths and torrential rain, every step is taken in the name of Movember, the leading charity changing the face of men’s health.

More than just moustaches, the Movember movement tackles some of the biggest health issues faced by men: mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. The Hairy Hikers are using their love of rugby and determination to make a difference, raising awareness and funds for this vital cause.

UNRUC President Sam Waters said, "We are 5 days into the walk and everything is getting tougher. Joints are hurting, steps are getting smaller, but the spirit is still strong. Every one of us is pulling together and using our combined struggles as a force for good.

"Every time we want to stop and finish, we remind ourselves why we are doing this. Millions of men in the UK struggle every day to just ‘make it to the end’, so why should we be any different? The awareness and funds we are raising will change lives for the better, and for us, that’s enough to just take another step forward every day!"

They’re documenting their journey on social media, follow along on Instagram: @thehairyhikers_ and TikTok @hairyhikers_.

You can support their cause by donating to their Movember campaign, and if you’re heading to Twickenham for the match, keep an eye out for The Hairy Hikers’ arrival and cheer them on!