Tapuwa Chabata
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Tapuwa Chabata, a former Zimbabwean rugby player is this Wednesday and Thursday (18–19 June 2025) in Mullingar, Ireland, set to make history by participating in a Guinness World Record attempt for the Longest Rugby Game ever played—a gruelling 36-hour match hosted at Mullingar RFC.
Chabata (53) who has made rugby a central part of his life, is using this incredible challenge to raise funds for three life-changing charities: LooseHeadz, Wooden Spoon, and The British & Irish Lions Trust.
According to a press release, Chabata will be joining 92 men and women pushing themselves to the limit for a shared cause that goes beyond the game.
“LooseHeadz aims at tackling the stigma around mental health in rugby by supporting clubs with free mental fitness resources.
“Wooden Spoon is the children’s charity of rugby. They raise funds to fund vital projects for young people living with disabilities or are disadvantaged.
“The British & Irish Lions Trust assists former Lions players in need and keeping the Lions spirit alive in communities across the UK and Ireland,” read the press release.
Born in Mount Darwin, Chabata fell in love with the sport of rugby at Chaplin High School in Gweru and he later became the first Captain of the Zimbabwe Universities and Colleges.
He served in the Zimbabwe National Army from 1993 to 2000 and relocated to the United Kingdom where has since been based.
“Rugby has given me unforgettable memories, friendships, and values.
“I intend to raise the Zimbabwe flag high during this challenge and am confident of a conquest.
“I also want to give something back by using this sport to support people and communities who need it most,” said Chabata.
The current Guinness World Records stand at: Men’s Game: 30 hours, 29 minutes, and 41 seconds, whilst the Women’s Game is 24 hours, 5 minutes and 15 seconds.
The goal is 36 hours of continuous play with the added aim of raising over 100,000 Pounds collectively and Chabata’s personal target is to raise 1,500 Pounds.
“This isn’t just about breaking a record. It’s about breaking barriers and stigma around mental health in sport, and to support disadvantaged children and families in the community,” Chabata added.
