Good Morning/Evening Folks on a grey Friday that seems appropriate after the sad news of Andy Ripley's passing.
Such a talented Guy he leaves such a wealth of achievemants as a legacy,detailed below a lighter moment that were so many during the life of this allround nice guy who hated to conform...................
As the prototype rock 'n' roll rugby superstar who defied the stuffed shirts of the establishment , Andy Ripley hated wearing a blazer, collar and tie.
One on its own would be barely tolerable but the idea of all three worn together drove him into an almost permanent state of rebellion throughout a wonderfully colourful career which made him the supreme nonconformist of his sporting generation. His refusal to kowtow caused some hilarious diplomatic incidents during the Lions' invincible tour of South Africa in 1974.
Easy rider: Andy Ripley defied the stuffed shirts of the establishment
For the first of the neverending round of ambassadorial receptions, Ripley turned up looking as if he had left his surfboard in the cloakroom. During the course of the subsequent rollicking, tour manager Alun Thomas warned him: 'There's another official function on Friday. You will wear the tour blazer, grey trousers and tie. Don't dare turn up in anything else.'
Ripley, the long hair reinforcing his image as Twickenham's first hippy, did exactly as he was told, wearing blazer, grey trousers and tie - nothing else. No shirt, no socks, no shoes!
Nice words Phil!
ReplyDeleteMany of us had the pleasure of meeting Andy thanks to this site.
He was one of the most genuine men you could wish to meet.
Articulate, good company, a mans man!
Today is a sad day!
God Bless Andy, Rest In Peace mate, free at last from this b***ard disease.
Mike & Kath xx
He was a remarkable human being. A true legend, and we were lucky to have him 'on our side'.
ReplyDeleteAndy with Carole Butler Dec 2008 B2PCa London Lunch
Really touching tributes Guys. I absolutely hate this disease and what it does to you fine men. We can only hope that this will help raise awareness in men everywhere. Andy deserved better.
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