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London Wasps scrum-half Joe Simpson today set a new Guinness World record for the world’s fastest pass of a rugby ball at a special event organised by the club’s main sponsor EMC.
The pass was measured at a speed of 48 mph – and officially entered into the record books by watching officials from Guinness. The event was organised as part of the Wasps’ promotion of their forthcoming St. George’s Day Game against Bath at Twickenham Stadium on Easter Saturday.

Simpson was joined by Wasps teammates Tom Varndell and Nic Berry and ex-players Kenny Logan and Mark Robinson in taking part in the challenge. London Wasps Head Coach Shaun Edwards was on hand to give advice to the players.

Commenting on his new status in the world record books, Simpson said, “I am thrilled to have beaten the other players involved to get my name in the record books. It’s been interesting to see the different speeds recorded, and the competitor in me meant I was determined to win.  Thanks to EMC for setting up the challenge, and giving me something fun to tell my children one day!”

Suraj Bithal, from Lehman Brothers who watched the action unfold said: “Today was a really good event here at Canary Wharf, and the interest from the public was great.  It was a novel way for City workers to spend their lunch hours, comparing their skills and prowess with the likes of Kenny Logan and some of the current Wasps boys.”

Speaking at the event, Mark Wheeler, UK and Ireland Marketing Director at EMC, said, “Congratulations to our new Guinness world record holder – and we look forward to seeing if his record of 48 mph will be challenged at Twickenham on Easter Saturday. This second annual St. George’s Day Game promises to be a great family day out – and EMC is proud to be associated with London Wasps’ campaign in support of some very deserving causes.”

The speed challenge will be available for budding Joe Simpsons to try out in the west car park at Twickenham on the afternoon of the St. George’s Day Game – featuring London Wasps versus Bath – on 23rd April.  The match is aiming to raise thousands of pounds for four special military charities – BLESMA, Combat Stress, the Special Boat Service Association and the Parachute Regiment Charity.

Tickets for the match are priced from just £15 and are available now on 0844 225 2990 or at stgeorgesdaygame.co.uk