Rugby
Rugby vs. the World: Rugby challenges Kung Fu
A legend meets a master. England Rugby 7’s Legend Ollie Phillips dares to enter the studio of champion Kung Fu Master Zhang Yi for three friendly, fun-filled challenges.
Just days after David (world’s fastest rope skipper Timothy Ho) faced Goliath (Fijian Rugby legend Deacon Manu) in Hong Kong, the International Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour travelled to Shanghai, where Rugby took on Kung Fu in the 10th installment of DHL’s Rugby vs. The World Challenge.
England Rugby 7’s Legend Ollie Phillips ventured into the studio of Shaolin Master Zhang Yi to test his skills against a local guru of this ancient art form. With the coveted Webb Ellis Cup looking on, Ollie was cautiously optimistic.
“The first challenge is a rugby one,” he said. “I’m obviously hoping I can come up trumps on that one.”
“I’ve never played Rugby before […] never touched it.” (Zhang Yi).
The fact that his opponent had never played Rugby fueled his confidence.
“I’ve never played Rugby before […] never touched it,” said Zhang.
Challenge 1 consisted of a Rugby passing range with the goal of hitting the targets. The best of three wins. After Ollie nailed all three, Zhang nearly matched the effort.
“I was a bit nervous when he absolutely nailed the first lantern,” Ollie said afterward.
His tension remained as the Kung Fu challenge approached, especially when he found out weapons were involved.
“Now I’m seriously scared,” he said. “If I don’t make it to the third challenge, it’s been nice knowing everyone,” he added tongue in cheek.
“If I don’t make it to the third challenge, it’s been nice knowing everyone.” (Ollie Phillips)
Challenge 2 was the Kung Fu spinning spear with each challenger trying for the most spins in 30 seconds. It was honestly more a demonstration than a challenge as Zhang showed off his amazing speed and agility with the spear. Ollie did his best, and took the loss in stride: “I think it’s because he gave me the longer stick,” he joked afterward. But he was seriously in awe of his master opponent: “The speed in which Zhang can move is just incredible.”
At one apiece it was time for the final chopstick challenge. Our ambassadors were to compete in a classic egg and spoon race, only Shanghai style.
Neck and neck, the two pulled out all the punches for the win. In the end, Ollie had more tricks up his sleeve – though he wouldn’t admit it afterward.
“He (Zhang) tried some seriously subtle, devious cheating techniques at the end,” he said afterward with a smile.
All tied: Rugby 5, The World 5
The friendly bout in Shanghai saw Rugby add a point to tie the overall score at 5 apiece after 10 challenges so far on the trophy tour – and we saw two ambassadors enthusiastically promote their sports and become fast friends in the process.
GALLERY: Don’t forget to click through the photo gallery above.
Next challenge: Cycling in Italy
The Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour now crosses the Eurasian continent to Italy, where Rugby will saddle up to face the sport of cycling. Spandex anyone? Stay tuned!
Follow us on Twitter @DHL_Rugby (#anythingispossible) or facebook.com/DHLRugby and catch up on all the Rugby vs. The World action on YouTube!
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