Here in the U.S. of A, we’re used to kicking off most sporting events with a rousing rendition of the national anthem.
It’s traditional, it’s beautiful, and it’s moving, like in this beautiful performance that proves that T-Pain is a serious musician! Of course, in other parts of the world, the American national anthem isn’t exactly the go-to sporting song.
As a general rule, national athletic leagues tend to sing their own anthem before games. For international competitions, it’s a bit more fluid. Sometimes the host country will perform; other times, there’s already a tradition in place.
Such is the case for the Rugby League Challenge Cup, held every year in London. Instead of singing a patriotic song, it’s traditional to open the match with a performance of the beautiful Anglican hymn Abide With Me, which is about carrying on through the darkest times
Like this remarkable Icelandic hymn, this is a song that’s touching in any situation. That said, this year’s performance was especially moving, largely thanks to the woman who brought the hymn to life on the field.
Lizzie Jones is a professional singer, as you can tell from her impeccable performance. She also happens to be the young widow of rugby player Danny Jones and a mother of two children.
Her husband, a renowned athlete, died in May 2015 when he collapsed from an undiagnosed heart condition on the field. Now, four months later, his beautiful widow keeps his memory alive. Watch on to see her incredible performance!
If you were moved by this young mother’s loss, please SHARE on Facebook to help bring peace to those around you who may be experiencing a dark time of their own.
