The big hooray of the Free State Rugby Union’s 130 year landmark celebration is sweeping through the city of Bloemfontein. Photo: Lientjie Mentz

The stage is set for the celebration of Free State Rugby’s 130 year milestone of thriving and promoting the sport in the province and South Africa. What has transcended into a lasting legacy will be celebrated on Friday, 11 July, in the Free State capital of Bloemfontein.

As luck would have it, this celebration coincides with another reason for excitement: an international match between the Cheetahs and Georgia’s national men’s team. The teams will go head to head in the 45 000-seater Toyota Stadium. Kick-off is at 19:00.
This match has been organised specifically to mark the formation of Free State Rugby and its achievements.

Ready for the Cheetahs’s match against Georgia are from the left Coach Ruan Pienaar,  CEO of the Free State Cheetahs Rory Duncan and captain of the Free State Cheetahs Victor Sekekete. PHOTO: Teboho Setena

The journey of a thousands miles began with the then Orange Free State Rugby Union’s formation in 1895. The name changed along the way to keep in line with innovations to impact positively on the growth of the sport of rugby.

Rory Duncan, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Free State Cheetahs, has commented on this chapter of rugby history and Friday’s event to mark the milestone.

“This event is a tribute to every player who has worn the jersey, every fan who has filled the stands, and every young boy or girl dreaming of one day playing for the Cheetahs.

“We cannot wait to welcome the rugby community to the Toyota Stadium for an unforgettable day.

“This will be more than a thrilling international clash. It is so much more than a game – it is a full-on family rugby festival.

“This historic fixture honours Free State Rugby’s 130th anniversary, marking over a century of iconic moments, fierce pride, and a legacy that continues to shape South African rugby.

“This is a great opportunity for us to show how hungry Bloemfontein is for international rugby.

“I believe the Georgia game is a great opportunity to showcase that we can host a world-class event. It is a great day out for the family, and a lot is going on at the Toyota Stadium,” said Duncan.

This fixture will also mark the beginning of Georgia’s tour in South Africa, which will see the visitors take on the reigning rugby world champions, the Springboks, in Nelspruit on 19 July.

Passionate supporters can be part of the big hooray by purchasing tickets for Friday’s game sold at R100 for seating on the open stand, and R150 for a seat on the main stand.

Buy at the ticket office at the Toyota Stadium or online at ticketpros.co.za.

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