Medics Rugby Challenge
Join us for the PEMRFC vs ROYAL MARINES XV match on Wednesday, 4th November. Gates will open at 16:30, with the Ladies kickin
WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT
MEDICS RUGBY CHALLENGE
This event showcases PEMRFC students competing against the Royal Marines XV while donating the funds raised to The Royal Marine Charity, known as The RMA. Celebrating its 16th year, this massive fundraising event contributes all its proceeds to a worthy cause that supports our country’s serving men, women, and their families as they recover from injuries and transition to civilian life.
Event proceeds go to The royal marines charity, THE RMA.
We are committed to the belief that once you become a Royal Marine, you remain a Royal Marine for life. Our vision is to provide ongoing and lifelong support to the Royal Marines Family.
PLYMOUTH AND EXETER MEDICS RFC
PEMRFC, better known as The Squirrels, is a club run by Plymouth and Exeter Medical students, and they proudly compete against teams such as the Royal Marines XV.
The Band of HM Royal Marines Plymouth enjoyed a busy year filled with musical engagements, starting with a performance at the Hall for Cornwall in Truro. This evening showcased music with a distinctly Cornish flavour, culminating in a spirited rendition of Trelawny, the unofficial anthem of Cornwall, where the audience eagerly joined in.
The Plymouth Band also participated in the Mountbatten Festival of Music held at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London. This event featured a special appearance by Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain, who led the massed bands in a tribute to Maiden, with Sgt Andy Platt from the Plymouth Band showcasing his guitar skills.
In their home county of Devon, the Band played on the pitch at Home Park for Plymouth Argyle’s Championship game against Preston North End, a match designated as their annual Armed Forces Day celebration. They also took advantage of the pleasant February weather to complete their annual military training package, resulting in nine ‘marksmen’ thanks to excellent guidance from their training team.
Throughout the summer, the Plymouth Band was actively involved in several prestigious Massed Bands events, including the Beating Retreat at Horseguards Parade in London, followed closely by leading the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for 2024.
During downtime between performances, the Band engaged in team-building activities, tackling the HMS Raleigh assault course and finishing up with a jump into the ‘Sheep Dip’ for a fun group photo. Another memorable photo opportunity arose when the Band visited Plymouth Breakwater, where they were joined by Brigadier Mike Tanner RM and Bear Grylls, the Honorary Colonel of the Royal Marines.
Various other musical engagements throughout the year included performances at HMS Raleigh’s Roebuck Theatre, Exmouth Pavilions, and Sterts Theatre in Liskeard, along with supporting phase one pass-out parades at HMS Raleigh, Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, and Commando Training Centre in Lympstone.
PLYMOUTH ALBION RFC
With a rich history and a passion for the glorious game of rugby, Plymouth Albion's generosity in hosting The Medics Challenge from its inception has attracted thousands of spectators over the years. This support has been crucial in raising the vital funds that the RMA depends on.
Sponsors
4th November 2026
SAVE THE DATE
Wednesday 4th November
Gates open at 16:30
Ladies KO 17:30
Men KO 19:30