The Dyldam Parramatta Eels have today hoisted the Blue and Gold Army Flag proudly above Belmore Sports Ground, after beating the Bulldogs to the 15,000 Members milestone.

After launching the #Raceto20K in December last year, Dyldam Parramatta Eels CEO Scott Seward and Bulldogs counterpart Raelene Castle set a wager that the first club to reach 15,000 Members would have their flag flying high above the opposition’s headquarters.

Despite striking the first blow in the #Raceto20K, Seward urged Eels supporters to enlist in the Blue and Gold Army as the club pushes towards a record 20,000 members.

“This is a tremendous achievement to reach 15,000 as quickly as we have and to have our flag hanging above Belmore is a great tribute to our Members,” Seward said.

“We can’t be complacent though because Bulldogs supporters are a passionate lot who will be breathing down our neck on our way to 20k.”

Raising the flag was Eels Member 2725910, Victoria Coppini, who won the honour of raising the Blue and Gold Army flag by showing her passion and posting an image using the #Raceto20K hashtag on social media.

Bulldogs CEO Raelene Castle congratulated the Eels on reaching the 15,000 Member mark first, but warned the #Raceto20K was a long way from finished yet.

“We congratulate the Eels on this milestone but remind them that the race has just begun,” Castle explained.

“With our blockbuster against the Bunnies on Good Friday nearing and the Bark Magazine just published, there has never been a better time to sign up and I know the Bulldogs faithful will rise to the challenge!”

The great value of family memberships for the 2014 NRL Season has been a major factor for growth for the Eels, with a three game Family Membership starting at just $100, including two adults and up to four juniors.

With no additional costs for monthly payment plans, there has never been a better time to become a Blue and Gold Army Member. It means Eels Memberships start from as little as $2.50 per month.

Click here to become a Member of the Dyldam Parramatta Eels today!