Australian rugby legend David Campese has said he is excited about being part of Carnoustie Rugby Club’s 40th anniversary celebrations next month — as long as he doesn’t have to pack winter woollies for the trip to Scotland.
Capped more than 100 times for the Wallabies, and a former world record holder for test match try scoring, Campo has also quipped that he hopes to pick up a tip or two at the weekend celebration during which he will lead beach rugby coaching sessions for the latest generation of local players.
Campese is coming to Scotland in mid-June to take part in events linked with the Bill McLaren Foundation and in a video message to the Angus outfit, the 54-year-old New South Wales star has also spoken of his enduring fondness for the legendary commentator.
At the centre of the 40th anniversary celebration will be the June 17 beach rugby tourney, with over 35s, mens and womens categories.
In his message to the Angus side, Campese said he was looking forward to a “fantastic” weekend.
“I hope it’s a beach, and I hope the sun comes out,” he said.
“Snow and rain and hail normally happens when I come to Scotland so let’s try and change that,” joked Campese, who rained plaudits down on the current health of the Scottish game.
“On the Sunday we’ve also got the mini’s touch rugby and a bit of a coaching session obviously with the way Scotland are going at the moment you may be able to teach the Aussies a thing or two.”
He added: “It’s what this great game is all about and I’m looking forward to it.”
Praising Carnoustie for reaching the anniversary milestone, Campese continued: “If you haven’t got club rugby you haven’t got the game. You have a lot of great people involved and that’s what brings the community together.”
Set up six years ago to promote the game and its values, The Bill Mclaren Foundation is also a cause close to Campese’s heart through his friendship with the man known as the voice of rugby, who died in 2010.
“Bill was a great mate of mine and seriously missed.
“I’m looking forward to fantastic events for the Bill McLaren Foundation, a bit of speaking, bit of beach rugby and a lot of fun.”
