Current-day defender Brodie Smith and Crows great Matthew Robran took turns kicking ‘torps’ across the River Torrens on Wednesday in the Toyota Torrens Kicking Competition.

The event was held to celebrate the Adelaide Football Club and Toyota Australia extending their longstanding partnership until at least the end of the 2019 AFL season.

Smith and Robran each had three attempts to kick from the riverbank near the rotunda to the opposite side of the River Torrens.

Estimations on the kicking distance varied from 60 to 100 metres, depending on who you asked. A strong headwind made the feat even more difficult.

Robran’s preparation was far from ideal.

Although still in great physical nick the two-time premiership player, who was renowned for launching the occasional ‘barrel’ in his playing days, claimed he “hadn’t kicked a footy in 15 years”

An untimely meeting also prevented the Crows Events Executive from partaking in a proper warm-up, prompting genuine concern for his 45-year-old hamstrings.

“I’m a bit nervous about ending up in the water, to be honest with you!” he said.

After winning the toss, Robran kicked things off with a mongrel torp that went sideways. His next two attempts, which included a drop punt, were cleaner but fell well short of the riverbank target.

Mindful of not injuring himself before Thursday night’s big game (and with coach Don Pyke in attendance), Smith made a cautious first attempt.

The long-kicking half-back has been practising his torps, even trying a couple in games this season, but that practise didn’t pay off.

Smith recorded the longest kick of the day, but the riverbank was a footbridge too far. Smith was crowned the winner and as a result his nominated school, Kidman Park Primary School, will join the Crows and Toyota for National Tree Day next month.

The All Australian was disappointed with his own performance, but pleased to be part of the event.

“They were probably three of the worst ones I’ve kicked all year!” he said.

“It didn’t go well … but it’s good to get out here and celebrate Toyota signing on again. They’ve been a big part of the footy club and we really appreciate their support.”

“For them to be onboard for what will be 29 years now is just massive for the Club.”