Cornelius Groat defeated the Sixty Niners in 1983 in the first officially recognised challenge match. This result was reversed in 1984. Since then, the Jackie Ruru Shield has changed hands frequently but never easily. Shield matches are renown for the passion, commitment and vigour displayed by opposing teams. As players will tell you, there's something about 'the Ruru' that stirs the blood and stiffens the sinew.
Victory is the source of tremendous pride - loss the source of an equal measure of sadness.
Memorable Shield challenges are burnt into the memory of those who've won and lost, not just for the last minute tries or field goals that so often separate teams, but for having played in a match that somehow captures the essence of club rugby. Today, the Jackie Ruru Shield is a Wellington rugby institution. Crowds, often larger than those that attend Premier club matches, gather to follow the fortunes of their friends and colleagues. People come not for the brilliant play, nor the thrilling spectacle. They come to witness something altogether more satisfying - rugby played with spirit and passion by men motivated by nothing more than their mates and their love of the game.