Last Friday (May 31) was the annual Sporting Dinner, which was held at Marlborough Town Hall. The club was very fortunate to secure Neil Back as the guest speaker for the evening. What he achieved during his career was astounding and something to behold: England Rugby Captain, 3 RWC’s, including RWC 2003 Winner, 16 tries, a DG (the only English forward in history), 3 British and Irish Lions including Series Winner, 15 appearances all within a 17-year playing career where he was awarded the RPA Players Player of Year, Premiership Hall of Fame, England RFU Player of Year, England RFU Hall of Fame, Leicester Tigers Captain, 5 Premiership Titles (4 back to back), 2 back to back European Cup Titles, 339 appearances, 125 tries, Nottingham RFC 44 appearances, and 10 tries!
It was great hearing Neil’s stories, such as never take on Jason Leonard in a drinking contest – you will lose! His resilience got him through some of his darkest times, where many may have thrown in the towel. Instead, he pushed himself harder, asking for help about fitness, nutrition, mental strength, or anything else that would give him an edge when he returned to playing. Much of this was before the game had become professional. He was way ahead of his time, and through his tenacity and determination, he has achieved so much.
There were also many anecdotes about winning the Rugby World Cup and the shenanigans afterwards. But the most impressive part of the evening was seeing his World Rugby Cup winner’s medal. This is not something many people get to see, and the club was delighted that Neil was happy to share his success with the guests. Neil was very gracious in allowing the medal to go around the room so everyone could have a look and have their photo taken with it. Meanwhile, he was chatting away to guests and then went to one of the local hostelries with some of them for a lock-in until 3:00 am. Somehow, the chances of Neil forgetting about little old Marlborough are quite slim.
It was also a night to celebrate two of Marlborough’s finest; Ash Horner received his 100th cap, which he thoroughly deserved. He has been part of Marlborough Rugby for a good number of years, and this last year he has been unstoppable. His work rate is second to none, and he finally got to be on the Army 15 team. He was also part of the winning team against the Navy last month, even scoring a try. Well, done, Ash.
Next, the seniors’ players’ award was given out to the Club volunteer they felt had gone above and beyond for them this season, whether it was managing traffic so the coach could get into and out of away club’s carparks. Filling water bottles, putting kit away, and so much more. They felt he deserved to be recognised and thanked publicly for all that he has done for them and the Club.
The Club would also like to thank all the sponsors who very kindly helped to support the evening and make it the success it was as well as an enjoyable event. Without their support, this event would not be able to go ahead. Thank you to Awdry Law, PCB People, Chilvester Financial, Fine & Country and Casa Fajara Rustic Boutique House and Hotel. Also, a shout out goes to Deacon’s for providing two of the main raffle prizes
St Michael’s School, Aldbourne receive Platinum Award for outdoor play
