A Leyton Orient fan took home £15,000 after winning the BetWright Bangers N’ Cash Crossbar Challenge at the BetWright Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Orient fan Graham Pringle came out on top in the regular half-time competition during The O’s 1-1 League One draw with Cardiff City in East London over the weekend.
The BetWright Bangers N’ Cash Crossbar Challenge was launched at the beginning of the season with an initial prize pot of £3,000 available for anyone able to strike the crossbar from the edge of the D during the half-time break.
The prize pot increased by a further £1,000 with each passing home game as a number of Orient fans failed to strike the woodwork. However, Graham became the first supporter to buck that trend on Saturday afternoon as he launched into wild celebrations after hitting the crossbar to take home the five-figure sum.
Graham said: “You can’t describe the feeling of hitting the crossbar in front of the Leyton Orient fans. I said to my wife afterwards it’s probably the second best thing that’s ever happened in my life, after marrying her. It was unbelievable, a fantastic feeling.
“After missing my first attempt, I thought I’d hit my second one harder and right down the middle – I was over the moon. The buzz of being out here, irrespective of winning the money, was just brilliant.
“I thought I had nothing to lose, I’ve got three grandsons that all play football and I thought just for them I’ve got to do it – it makes them proud. With the money I’ll probably treat my kids to holidays or take them away, and upgrade my car!”
David Matthews, CEO of BetWright, said: “This is what football and Bangers N’ Cash are all about. Moments like this are what fans remember, and seeing a lifelong Orient supporter apply the Wright touch at the BetWright Stadium was unforgettable.
“We’re proud to play our part in creating experiences that stay with fans for a lifetime, and are delighted he’s going home with £15,000.”
Following Graham’s triumph, the BetWright Bangers N’ Cash Crossbar Challenge will restart at Orient’s next home match against Reading on January 17, with the prize fund starting back at £1,000.
As part of the competition, participating supporters are initially given one attempt to hit the crossbar. Should they miss that they are then offered the chance to pick one of three cards, two of which offer a consolation prize, with the other card providing a second attempt.
