RFU Injured Players Foundation

TCS London Marathon 2026 Rugby Runners

Hamish Minton

Hamish Minton

My Story

On March 5th 2022, aged 21, I suffered a catastrophic nerve damage injury playing rugby. I avulsed my brachial plexus at C5 and C6 and lost all movement in my right arm.

It changed everything.

For almost two years I had zero movement in my right arm. My university studies had to stop. I had lost movement, lost the sport that has shaped me, and for a while, lost a bit of myself.

Before I’d even left hospital, as with any amateur rugby player, who suffers a life changing injury on an English Pitch - The RFU Injured players foundation were there.

When I was hospitalised, they stepped in immediately. They funded adaptations to my car so I could regain independence, financed physio equipment for my rehab, and supported me through the uncertainty of those early days.

Aside from the physical difficulties and constant pain, the mental mountain I had to navigate was a real strain on my wellbeing. More than the practical help, they made it clear from the very start that I wasn’t facing it alone.

This year I’m running the London Marathon for them.

26.2 miles feels small compared to what some injured players face every day. I’m lucky I can run. Many aren’t.

If rugby means something to you — or if you just believe in backing people when life changes unexpectedly — I’d love your support.

72%

Funded

  • Target
    £2,500
  • Raised so far
    £1,796
  • Number of donors
    57

My Story

On March 5th 2022, aged 21, I suffered a catastrophic nerve damage injury playing rugby. I avulsed my brachial plexus at C5 and C6 and lost all movement in my right arm.

It changed everything.

For almost two years I had zero movement in my right arm. My university studies had to stop. I had lost movement, lost the sport that has shaped me, and for a while, lost a bit of myself.

Before I’d even left hospital, as with any amateur rugby player, who suffers a life changing injury on an English Pitch - The RFU Injured players foundation were there.

When I was hospitalised, they stepped in immediately. They funded adaptations to my car so I could regain independence, financed physio equipment for my rehab, and supported me through the uncertainty of those early days.

Aside from the physical difficulties and constant pain, the mental mountain I had to navigate was a real strain on my wellbeing. More than the practical help, they made it clear from the very start that I wasn’t facing it alone.

This year I’m running the London Marathon for them.

26.2 miles feels small compared to what some injured players face every day. I’m lucky I can run. Many aren’t.

If rugby means something to you — or if you just believe in backing people when life changes unexpectedly — I’d love your support.

Hamish Minton is fundraising towards