AN OCTOGENARIAN rugby player has spoken of his love of the game after becoming a hit with fans across Europe.
Alastair Urquhart, 85, of Brechin Rugby Club, has achieved mini celebrity status among local players following his heroics on the pitch in a friendly match between Brechin BRUCEs and Italian side Reggio Emilia.
The Edinburgh man, who started playing the game aged eight on the fields of Penarth, Wales, played a starring role in his side’s match against the Italian team in a game that was set up following a chance meeting at Murrayfield, as told by The Courier yesterday.
Alastair said: “I have been playing Golden Oldies rugby since 2008 when the International Festival was held in Edinburgh.
“In the following year the first Scottish Golden Oldies Festival was held at Perth to encourage some of the many Scottish teams raised for 2008 to continue.
“I joined the Aberdeen Strollers to play in 2010 and in 2011 joined up with the Brechin BRUCEs who were making their debut but were not at full strength.
“I was made very welcome, as was my wife Kirsty, and the following year they paid me the honour of making me an honorary member.
“When the proposal to tour Italy came up I subscribed immediately and, though quite exhausted at the end of a week’s activities, thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
“They upheld the aims of Golden Oldie Rugby fun, friendship and fraternity magnificently.”
Alastair stood out from the crowd during the match by wearing a white bunnet and purple shorts, to help secure his safety.
He added: “The Brechin lads and lasses do such a great job in and for their community. I feel honoured that they wish to have me in their ranks.”
mdalziel@thecourier.co.uk