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Newtonmore shinty legend Ralph has died aged 81


By Tom Ramage

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Newtonmore is mourning the loss of one of its greatest sporting heroes following the passing of Sandy Ralph at 81.

Not just a legendary shinty player, Sandy was of the village's longest-serving sons.

A true legend: Sandy Ralph in triumphant mode
A true legend: Sandy Ralph in triumphant mode

As fellow shinty star, great friend and villager John Mackenzie MBE posted today:

"Sandy Ralph was, quite simply, one of the greatest players to represent the village on the shinty field in a long and successful career. He was fully deserving of the accolade of 'legend', that often overworked and misused measure of a player’s abilities, whilst playing with a clutch of other players of similar abilities."

In his tribute, Mr Mackenzie pointed out that his great friend had been the proud possessor of no fewer than nine Camanachd Cup winner medals. He captained Newtonmore in the 1977 Cup Final win over Kyles Athletic at Old Anniesland in Glasgow and played his last final in 1979, again against Kyles.

In his youthful days Sandy was the all-round sportsman, excelling in football, golf, badminton, athletics, curling and of course, shinty always playing in his beloved Newtonmore blue and white hoops.

"One of the games speediest, versatile, most fearless and skilful exponents, I had the great privilege of playing alongside him on most if not all of the game’s famous green fields and historic venues of the sport, and on some of its greatest occasions.

"Over a glittering career spanning Newtonmore’s halcyon period between the mid 1960’s through to the early 1980s and being a multiple trophy and medal winner Sandy was the proud winner of the sport’s flagship trophy the Camanachd Cup – the 'Scottish' as we know it locally – winning his ninth gold medal and ultimately the Captain’s Silver Mounted Caman in season 1976-77."

Professionally, Sandy served his apprenticeship and was employed with Fraser & Co Joiners, carpenters and undertakers, subsequently Kenneth MacRae & Co, King Street, Kingussie, serving the firm his entire working life with distinction.

"One of many legacies, much appreciated by the wider community, can be seen in the dismantling, relocation and careful reconstruction of the former King Street, Kingussie, Joiners’ shop at the Highland Folk Museum, where Sandy lead a work team with the same distinction and excellence he brought to the shinty field," recalled Mr Mackenzie.

"He was a great family man and predeceased by his dear wife Catrina.

"Sandy will be sorely missed by those who knew him closest and best. My profound condolences and the sympathy of the whole community are extended to Richard, Raymond, Edward, and their families, together with Sister Elizabeth (Teeny) at this very sad time for them all."


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