IRFU Charitable Trust launches the Ireland Rugby Rowers Corporate Championship

MediaPLUS  /  16th October 2025  /  Cormac Cahill

The IRFU Charitable Trust officially launched the Ireland Rugby Rowers Corporate Championship 2026 at dmg media Ireland’s Hub, marking an exciting collaboration between sport, business, and philanthropy.

The announcement coincided with dmg media Ireland’s launch of its new sports brand, The Lineout, and highlighted the organisation’s ongoing partnership with the IRFU Charitable Trust.

Taking place on Saturday, 21st March 2026, the Corporate Championship will see companies from across Ireland compete alongside the world record-breaking Rugby Rowers — all in support of two exceptional causes: Barretstown and the IRFU Charitable Trust.

Row with the Rugby Rowers – and Help Make History

For the first time ever, businesses have the chance to join a select group of companies taking part in Ireland’s inaugural Rugby Rowers Corporate Championship.

Teams of 10, including a minimum of three women, will battle it out in a one-hour rowing competition, with live leaderboards tracking every metre rowed.

Each team will benefit from a 12-week professional training programme, designed and led by international rower Ryan Corcoran – the same programme the Rugby Rowers themselves will follow.

Entry Fee: €5,000 per team

While corporate teams compete, the Rugby Rowers — a powerhouse group of male and female international rugby and rowing legends, all over 40 — will take on an extraordinary 24-hour rowing challenge, aiming to set “Four-in-a-Row” World Records in aid of Barretstown and the IRFU Charitable Trust.

Meet the Rugby Rowers

This inspiring lineup includes:

  • Sanita Puspure, World Champion & Olympian
  • Nora Stapleton, Grand Slam Winner
  • Kenny McDonald, Multiple World Record Holder
  • Bob Casey, Gordon D’Arcy, Stephen Ferris, Malcolm O’Kelly, Kevin McLaughlin, and the Wallace brothers – David and Paul

Together, they represent the best of Irish rugby and rowing, united by a shared passion for pushing limits and giving back.

Why Your Company Should Sign Up

  • Empower Your Team: Engage employees in a unique team-building and wellbeing initiative that combines fitness, fun, and philanthropy.
  • Make an Impact: Support two life-changing charities – Barretstown and the IRFU Charitable Trust – while demonstrating meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility.
  • Train Like the Pros: Experience the same elite training regime as the Rugby Rowers themselves with Ryan Corcoran’s tailored 12-week programme.
  • Join the Community: Compete alongside a network of Irish sporting greats and leading companies, and celebrate at the exclusive after-party with fellow participants, family, and friends.
  • Be Part of History: Share in the moment as the Rugby Rowers attempt to achieve an unprecedented “Four-in-a-Row” World Record.

For the second consecutive year, BusinessPlus has partnered with the IRFU Charitable Trust to help promote and support the Rugby Rowers’ record-breaking challenge — all in the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and giving back.

Get Involved

To register your company team or learn more about sponsorship and partnership opportunities, CLICK HERE.

Click here for the original article on BusinessPlus.ie 

During the launch of the IRFU Charitable Trust “Ireland Rugby Rowers Corporate Championship”, Extra.ie asked Rugby Rowers Kevin McLaughlin and Mal O’Kelly a few questions … the above video is Part 1 … enjoy!