World Cup Dream continues for TAB’s last man standing

World Cup Dream continues for TAB’s last man standing

The hopes of more than 47,000 New Zealanders are dashed, after the last man standing in the TAB’s One Punt at a Million competition was eliminated this morning.

Canterbury security guard Russell Walker stunned the nation, after he became the only New Zealander to correctly predict the results of the first five games in the tournament, including Japan’s shocking defeat of South Africa.

For the 22 year old to stay in with a shot at the million dollars, Uruguay had to defeat Wales in Cardiff this morning. Sadly that was not to be.

But the Rugby World Cup dream is not over for Russell Walker.

To reward him for his brilliance, the TAB is sending him on an all expenses paid trip to the Rugby World Cup Semi Finals and Final with 2011 RWC Hero Stephen ‘Beaver’ Donald.

Bookmaker Mark Stafford says the TAB had no plans to put up a consolation prize.

“That was all it was originally going to be – one punt at a million.”

“But an incredible effort is worthy of an incredible reward; the fact that Russell managed to pick what can only be described as one of the biggest upsets in sporting history is amazing and deserves some recognition,” says TAB Bookmaker Mark Stafford.

Walker will join Stephen Donald and 300 other All Black fans on the ‘Beaver Fan Flight’ through All Black Tours.

Donald says he can’t wait to give Walker what promises to be a truly unique rugby experience.

“It’s going to be epic. Practicing my commentary skills at 40,000 feet and sharing some yarns with this young lad will be a great way to start the trip of a lifetime.”

Stafford says while he didn’t expect the competition to end so early, the TAB is delighted with the buzz it’s created.

Despite their sensational win Japan are still $4.50 underdogs against Scotland ($1.16) Thursday morning, but all the money is on the underdog.

ENDS

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