Family, friends and rugby lovers around the world are mourning the loss of Mike Burton, Bahrain’s ‘grandfather of rugby’ and cherished member of the kingdom’s British expatriate community.
The 81-year-old former Bahrain Rugby Football Club (BRFC) chairman passed peacefully at his home in Cornwall, UK, on April 30, leaving behind his wife, Lyn, two children William and Louise, and grandchildren Oliver, Sam, Nia and Grace.
Mr Burton, who arrived in the kingdom in 1989, was a key figure in the region’s rugby scene, having helped establish the Bahrain Rugby Football Club’s Golden Oldies team of veteran players in 1992.
The BRFC Golden Oldies (over 35s) were the first ‘true regular playing veterans’ team in the region, and the various Arabian Gulf ‘vets leagues’ and tournaments have followed in their footsteps.
They have toured the Philippines, Thailand, Holland, Ireland, among other rugby-playing nations.
Friends and family members remember Mr Burton, who was the founder and owner of BMS Marine Consultancy Services, for his ‘warmth and humour’, as well as his special ability to make everyone feel included and valued.
On Monday, the BRFC released a statement on social media to honour his life and remember him as a ‘club legend’.
“Mike was a true club man – a former club president and chairman,” the statement read.
“He was a proud founder of the Golden Oldies and recently honoured with the very first legacy number 001 – the shirt that carries his name with every other Golden Oldie.
“But above all, he was a friend to many and a ‘father figure’ to all within the club. His presence, humour and steady hand helped shape the spirit of our club across generations.
“From his beloved wife, Lyn, and in the many heartfelt messages she has received, one theme stands out: ‘Mike’s gift for inclusion and encouragement was ever-present in the way he engaged with players and members alike’.
“He made everyone feel welcome, valued and a part of something bigger. He always spoke highly of his days at the club – it was a second home to him.”
The statement added that Mr Burton’s legacy will be forever woven into the fabric of BRFC. He will be missed dearly but remembered with warmth and pride.
Bahrain Rugby Football Association president Jean-Christophe Durand, who recently replaced Nader Shaheen earlier this year, highlighted that Mr Burton will always be regarded as a ‘pillar in the kingdom’s rugby community’.
“He was known by everyone in the rugby scene and will always be thought of as a legend,” he told the GDN.
“He really put his soul into the sport and even continued playing at an advanced age, highlighting his passion for rugby and inspiring others within the community.”
BRFC officials are planning a special celebration of Mr Burton’s playing prowess. Details will be announced shortly.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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