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Hullkr

1 Jul 2022

Phil's set for another 300-mile walk from ground to ground in aid of Mose Masoe Foundation

Phil's set for another 300-mile walk from ground to ground in aid of Mose Masoe Foundation

Hull KR’s Stadium and Operations Manager, Phil Stow will undertake a huge 300-mile walk carrying a ceremonial brass shell fired earlier this year to celebrate the Queens Platinum Jubilee and raise funds for the Mose Masoe Foundation and The Army Benevolent Fund.

Having previously served in her Majesty’s Armed Forces for over 25 years, Phil will visit Super League’s UK-based stadiums by foot before finishing at Newcastle’s St. James’ Park for the Hull Derby on 10th July. 

After spearheading last year’s ‘Walk and Talk’ charity walk for the Mose Masoe Foundation, Phil is back with an even bigger challenge this year. The walk will cover an enormous 300 miles with Phil carrying a brass shell fired earlier this year for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in York. 

Phil will set off from St. Helens' Totally Wicked Stadium on Sunday 3rd July and walk to the remaining nine UK-based Super League teams’ stadiums, where the shell will be signed by each club’s respective captain.

Following the signatures from Hull KR and Hull FC captains, Shaun Kenny-Dowall and Luke Gale, Phil will then go cross-country and walk to Newcastle in time for the Robins’ closing fixture against Hull FC at this year’s Magic Weekend. 

Speaking of the challenge ahead, Phil emphasised the motivation behind the walk for the Army Benevolent Fund and the Mose Masoe Foundation: 

He said: “Both charities mean a lot to me, spending most of my adult life within the Armed Forces the ABF has always been there to support the troops and their families. 

"ABF (The Army Benevolent Fund) is one of the longest-standing military charities, the support and relentless work they do is unbelievable with people working constantly behind the scenes - they are unsung heroes that focus solely on looking after the troops and their families in their hour of need.” 

The Mose Masoe Foundation was first set up to help Mose Masoe. Himself – a player who touched the hearts of thousands with his self-sacrifice and humble approach.

The charity is now helping not only Mose, but any players within the Rugby League family that suffer spinal injuries.

Phil added: “To that end, this walk is to help spread the word for both charities. The 105 shell I’m carrying will be engraved with both charities' logos and then signed by Super League’s captains with a small inscription about when the shell was fired. 

"The inspiration was something that would bring both charities together and with plans to give the public a chance to purchase with the proceeds donated to ABF and Mose Masoe Foundation." 

For the second leg of the walk Phil will be joined by Lt Col (Andy) Black who did the walk with Phil last year.

Andy who is the Army Head of Engagement for the North East and Yorkshire and works with all community engagements has helped organise the walk and was keen to take part again this year. 

Fans can donate here.