18-YEAR-OLD Wattsville Ladies FC player Carly Buchanan-Thomas is preparing to take on one of the most thrilling stunt challenges imaginable — stepping inside Circus Extreme’s legendary Globe of Death to raise funds for women’s grassroots football.
Taking place during Circus Extreme’s Cardiff run at Cardiff FC Stadium, Carly will attempt to complete as many kicky-uppies as possible inside the Globe of Death while motorcyclists race around her at high speed in a spectacular fundraising stunt designed to support Wattsville Ladies FC and the club’s Under 8s girls team.
The challenge will take place following the 5pm performance on Sunday (May 17) at 7pm, as Circus Extreme continues its stay in Cardiff until May 31.
The fundraiser aims to raise money for much-needed new kits for both the women’s team and the next generation of young female footballers coming through the club’s ranks.
For Carly who lives in Newport, the challenge is about much more than football kits.
Carly Buchanan-Thomas said: “Women’s football continues to grow at every level, but grassroots clubs still need support to make sure girls have the opportunities they deserve.
“The younger girls in our club are the future, and giving them the right support, resources and sense of belonging is so important.”
“This challenge is definitely unlike anything I’ve ever done before, and I’m incredibly excited to take it on.
“It’s a bit terrifying knowing there will be motorbikes racing around me, but if it helps raise money for our club and encourages more girls to get involved in football, then it’s absolutely worth it.”
Wattsville Ladies FC plays an important role in creating opportunities for women and girls in football, with grassroots clubs often relying heavily on fundraising and community support to provide equipment, kit, and development opportunities for players.
Circus Extreme, known for its jaw-dropping stunts, world-class performers, and adrenaline-fuelled live entertainment, provides the perfect setting for Carly’s bold fundraising mission.
Anthony Anderson, Director of Circus Extreme, said: “At Circus Extreme, we’ve always believed in being more than just a show that visits a city — we want to be part of the communities we perform in and support local people wherever we can.
“When we heard about Carly’s fundraising idea and her passion for supporting women’s football, we thought it was a fantastic challenge to get behind. It’s brave, exciting, and for a genuinely worthwhile cause.
“Supporting young people, local clubs, and community initiatives is something we’re proud to do, and we’re delighted to help Carly take on this incredible stunt.”
Supporters who would like to back Carly’s challenge and support the future of women’s football can donate via the Wattsville ladies FC kit fund GoFundMe page.
With courage, determination, and a passion for growing the women’s game, Carly’s Globe of Death challenge promises to be a spectacular show of support for grassroots football and the next generation of female players.
Circus Extreme continues its performances in Cardiff until 31st of May.
Audiences can expect an astonishing line-up of acts including the breathtaking Aqua Aerialists, the death-defying Wheel of Death, the explosive EXTREME® Freestyle Motocross Team, the heart-stopping Globe of Death, high-flying trapeze stunts, the spectacular Double Ukrainian Swing, and much more.
For the first time in Circus Extreme history, the show will feature a full live rock band, complete with singers and dancers, delivering a soundtrack that transforms the traditional circus experience into a full-scale rock spectacle.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, music lover, theatre fan, or simply looking for an unforgettable family day out, ROCK IT OUT promises to be the must-see live event of the year.
