RUGBY aficionados who no longer feel up to the scrum and tackle of the traditional game have the opportunity to explore an alternative when the Cornwall Walking Rugby tournament takes place at St Austell RFC on Saturday [July 26].

This variation on Cornwall’s national sport is fun, inclusive and growing in popularity, with teams established in St Austell and Saltash. It has its own rules, with play at walking pace and strictly no contact or tackling; and is played with a smaller ball by teams of seven, with three subs on the bench. It’s sociable and suitable for all ages, abilities and backgrounds, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro who needs to take it easy.

Phil Dove, volunteer chairman of the rugby committee at St Austell RFC, said: “Walking rugby is very similar to the original game in many respects, but without the physical contact. This makes it very good for players who are in rehab from injury, or older players who don’t want to run.

“By way of example, our rugby veterans’ team is made up of players aged 32 to 35 – some might play into their 50s, but it’s rare. In contrast, walking rugby players can comfortably play into their 60s.”

In St Austell, players meet on Friday evenings for an hour from 6.30pm. “We have a stretch beforehand, then the game itself is very low impact and stable,” said Phil. “We’re trying to encourage more players and teams, especially those who can’t manage the tackling side of things but would still like to be involved.”

The tournament will begin at 1pm on St Austell RFC’s main pitch, with teams from around Cornwall playing to walking rugby rules. Spectators are welcome, and prospective players are invited to show up with a pair of trainers in case there are enough to make a team.