Donald Campbell (rugby player)

Donald Campbell (1919 - 12 September 1944) was a Chilean rugby union player. He played as a centre. From Scottish descent, his father, Colin played football for Chile while his younger brother Ian also played rugby for Chile.[1]

He played, like his brother, for Prince of Wales Country Club, from Santiago. He was an international player for Chile, even in a single match, in 12 August 1938, with Argentina, in Buenos Aires, in a 3-33 loss. It was the first ever international tour of Chile.

A dual British and Chilean citizen, he joined the Royal Air Force, in 1941, haulting then his rugby career. He was a pilot with the Bomber Commander, being killed in action during a raid over Germany, in 12 September 1944.

He was inducted at the IRB Hall of Fame on May 2012, among his brother Ian Campbell, who was present. Donald was represented by his son, Colin. Ian said: "This is a huge honour for me and I couldn't be more pleased at the fact that Donald has been included in this induction as well. He was my sporting hero. So much so that as a young boy all I wanted was to be able someday to play rugby, cricket or hockey (at all of which he excelled) with him when I grew up."[2]

References

  1. ↑ Chris Thau (15 May 2008). "Birthday accolade for father of Chilean rugby". IRB. Retrieved 30 June 2014.
  2. ↑ Chilean rugby greats added to Hall of Fame, 26 May 2012

External links