Tributes have been paid to former Scotland rugby player, Ken Macaulay, from Great
Bernera, Lewis, who died suddenly on Sunday, a day after completing a marathon 1000-mile
fundraising cycle challenge.
Over October he undertook a an epic cycle ride visiting 76 rugby club and pitches
in Scotland he played at during his 30-year league rugby career, starting and ending
at Netherdale in Galashiels, raise £16,300 so far for four charities - Murrayfield
Injured Players’ Foundation; Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland; Prostate Scotland;
and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.
Earlier this year Ken was one of 75 players to be added to the sport’s roll of honour, recognising their contribution to international matches with retrospective caps.
The 67-year-old received his cap 44 years after being picked for a Scotland squad
for a game against a France Select team in Bordeaux as part of a three match tour.
In a statement following his death, his family said: "We're so proud of him but overwhelmed by his loss at the same time. Ken's first response to receiving his retrospective cap was to use it as a platform to give back, we are so in awe of all he has achieved."
Colin Rigby, Scottish Rugby president, said: “Ken was a big man, with an out-going
personality. His passion for rugby knew no bounds.
“He took immense pride in being awarded a Scotland cap and was determined to ‘give something back’ after such a rich and fulfilling rugby career.”
He added: “It is devastating news to hear of Ken’s passing, so soon after he had completed such a selfless mission, and we send all our love to his family and friends.”
Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland said they are ”deeply saddened and shocked” by the
passing of Ken Macaulay on Sunday after completing his inspiring 1,000 mile cycling
challenge to the rugby clubs he played at over his 30-season playing career.
“Ken's dedication and commitment to supporting our causes will forever remain a testament to his compassionate spirit. We are incredibly grateful for his choice to support Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, Prostate Scotland, and Murrayfield Injured Players Foundation through his efforts.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Ken’s family and friends during this difficult time. His legacy of kindness and generosity will be felt by all those whose lives he aimed to change.”
Charities benefiting from his cycle fundraiser also paid tribute including the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation which said: “We are desperately sad to hear of the passing of Ken Macaulay, a true supporter and advocate for our cause. Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.
“Ken was a remarkable individual whose contributions to rugby and charity were truly outstanding. Through his challenge, he raised substantial funds for four causes he cared deeply about. We will ensure that the money he raised for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation will be invested in vital MND research, offering hope to those living with the disease now and in the future.”
Ken Macaulay was born in Northampton in October 1957. He was introduced to rugby at Queen Elizabeth Grammer School in Wakefield, where he ended up as captain of the 1st XV. Ken also turned out for for Yorkshire Schools, North Eastern Counties (Yorkshire, Durham and Northumberland) and North of England against Midlands Schools.
While still a schoolboy, he played for Morley RUFC, one of Yorkshire’s most successful clubs.
He joined Gala Rugby Club in the Borders in 1976 after moving to study at the Scottish College of Textiles in Galashiels.
By 1989, he and his family had relocated to East Lothian where Ken commuted to Edinburgh, for his employment at the Bank of Scotland and he joined the Heriots Rugby Club.
Four years later he accepted an offer to become player-
He is is survived by his wife Pat -
Death of ex-
28 October 2024
