It turns out foxes are indeed the fastest on the field with Thames Valley Rugby’s mascot – Swampy – dominating during the infamous Mascot Race.
Held during the half-time final of the Bunnings NPC (National Provincial Championship) on October 21, Swampy led the 100-metre charge and made it to the goal line ahead of other iconic mascots like Northland’s Taniwha, Auckland’s Seagull, and Wellington’s Leo the Lion.
Not only did Swampy cross the finish line first, the Thames Valley mascot – whose real identity The Profile has agreed to keep secret – did some celebratory push ups while other racers tousled on-field.
Thames Valley Rugby Union’s community rugby manager Scott Day said it was a massive achievement to win the mascot race, with Swampy receiving a lot of attention throughout Aotearoa following his sprint.