Basil Bey Tribute Series

01/03/2024| Basil Bey, Comments, Tributes

A great rugby man has fallen …

A massive figure in my life, and in the lives of many of us, Basil Bey, ‘Pops’, as I affectionately called him, or Bey Pasha, has passed away. Basil had been critically ill with cancer for a long time, and when it spread to his bones, the referee was playing optional time.

The game is over for Basil, but for so many people the game goes on inspired by a complex, passionate, intensely private but hugely generous man who gave so much of what is important in life; values, integrity, wit, charm, a self-deprecating sense of irony, an astonishing ability to bring the very best out of others, on and off the rugby field, and so many happy memories of rugby games, stories and times together, his larger than life persona will live on.

On behalf of the Club, I would like to thank the many contributors to this collection of Basil Bey tributes, stories and anecdotes. The response is indicative of the admiration, respect and love Basil Bey evoked from a wide, diverse spread of people of all ages, colours and creeds. He was a man of his times; and a man whose influence lasted all his life. He set a shining example for the future. Basil inspired, persuaded, seduced and coaxed the best out of people.

For ease of navigation, please find below a full content list for this tribute series.

I trust that you will enjoy the read.

Basil, old friend; hamba kahle, uphumule kahle.

Gavin Fernie

Ikey Old Boy

Part 1: Introduction

1. Introduction

Written by Gavin Fernie

Part 2: Featured Items

1. 1961: The Essence of Varsity Rugby

Written by Basil Bey

2. Tribute by Paul Dobson