Former Ireland prop [Irish Times] and Brecon AC thrower Gary Halpin dies at the age of just 55. As a former Irish rugby international he scored a famous try against the All-Blacks in 1995.
Gary was a member of Brecon AC from 2010-2016 and during this time took part in Welsh Masters league events as well as Championships. He was a very pleasant and entertaining guy who was always willing (and able!) to help fellow throwers. The Christ College pupils who came to the club said that he was an inspiration - an old fashioned character who perhaps didn't worry too much about protocols and administration!
Gary had represented Ireland in the hammer at the 1987 World Athletic Championships and 24 years later at the age of 45 he finished 2nd in the World Masters Championships at Sacramento with a best throw of 53m71. A larger than life character taken too early! Gary in the middle, with John Davies on the right and Phil Olsen on the left.
