“Richie was a hard worker with a dream”

Young Auckland actor, Arlo Feeney believes with hard work anything is possible; it’s a philosophy he shares with his hero, All Blacks legend Richie McCaw.

The talented nine-year-old plays young Richie from the ages of 7-12 in this year’s most talked about film – Chasing Great – the feature length documentary on the life of the former All Blacks captain.

While a hectic filming schedule didn’t leave any time for the North Shore schoolboy to meet the man himself, he’ll finally get his chance at this week’s premiere screening at Auckland’s Civic Theatre.

Richie McCaw, the film, coming to cinemas in 2016

Arlo, who has also appeared in the American comedy series Ash Vs Evil Dead, called the experience of playing Richie McCaw “amazing”.

“He is one of my very favourite rugby players and one of the best players of all time. Richie was a hard worker with a dream. And he turned that dream into a reality which proves if you’re persistent you can achieve anything. And being an All Black is not easy.”

Arlo’s mum Nic told the New Zealand Herald her boy’s resemblance to young Richie most likely swung the role in Arlo’s favour.

“They did add padding to Arlo to bulk him out a bit.

“He loved the wardrobe part, getting to wear rugby jerseys just like Richie would have worn.”

This week’s premiere is guaranteed to be a sporting star-studded affair, with current as well as former All Blacks expected to attend the red carpet event.

Chasing Great will be screening in cinemas around New Zealand from September 1.