Knights Kayak racing

Ben Parkinson

Doncaster Knights first team players will be taking part in Ben Parkinsons event to raise money for Doncaster Neuro Outreach Team. In support of this Kayak racing event the Knights squad will be collecting donations at their home games against Nottingham (Sat 27th March) and Exeter Chiefs ( Sat 3rd April).

Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson is a local soldier from Doncaster, he was seriously injured in Afghanistan serving with 7 Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery in September 2006 and is the most severely injured soldier ever to survive. Ben played his Junior Rugby at Castle Park as part of the Doncaster Knights mini junior setup before joining the Parachute regiment. He was also the clubs guest of honour at the Remembrance Day Lunch held as the Knights defeated Birmingham in the RFU Championship in November.

Ben’s road to recovery has been a remarkable one, he is making astounding progress and receiving fantastic support from the Doncaster Neuro Outreach Team.

Ben has set himself a challenge to raise money for the British Limbless Ex Service Men’s
Association (BLESMA) and for equipment needed by the Doncaster Neuro Outreach Team
which will benefit both local patients and local injured soldiers returning to Doncaster. In
addition to the kayak race, Ben plans to canoe around the Lake on the day and hopes to walk out to his canoe.

Players from Doncaster Knights will be there to support Ben on the day, taking part in the Kayak race and other events in support of the cause.

If you would like to be involved in helping the Knights support Ben in his fundraising, please contact Martin Haythorne on press@castle-park.co.uk or by telephoning 01302 831388