Rugby giant David dies on training run

Apr 10 2009 by Mike Wilson

A FORMER rugby giant collapsed and died in front of shocked youngsters.

David Gray had just completed a training run at Dam Park Stadium when it is believed he suffered a massive heart attack. Frantic efforts to revive him were in vain.

David, 56, was a frequent visitor to the Ayr track where he often trained after work.

In a glittering rugby career, he played for Kilmarnock and West, winning nine caps for Scotland between 1978 and 1981. He was also a popular figure at Millbrae, the home of Ayr Rugby Club.

The dad of two’s death shocked Ayr Seaforth athletes who had just arrived for their Thursday evening training session.

Club secretary Glen Harrower said: “Although David wasn’t a club member, he often joined us at his regular jogging sessions around the track. He was gentle giant of a man who I got to know well.

“Two of our senior athletes tried to give him the kiss of life and an ambulance arrived quickly but nothing could be done. It’s a huge shock to everybody.”

David worked with South Ayrshire Council. A spokesman said: “David was an outstanding employee, who carried out his duties as the council’s outdoor access officer to a particularly high standard. He was very well liked and respected by both officers and elected members and the wide range of community groups and agencies that he worked in partnership with.

“David will be very much missed and our thoughts and sympathies are with his family at this very sad time.”