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The 50-year-old was a popular figure in New Zealand rugby
Tributes have been pouring in from across New Zealand’s rugby community after a popular player was tragically when the tractor he was driving overturned.
According to reports, the body of Blair Gavin Mirfin, 50, was found downstream from an upturned tractor near Ikamatua on Friday morning.
Mirfin was a popular figure in New Zealand’s rugby community, having played for Nelson Marist, Blenheim Harlequins and Grey Valley clubs.
A highly-respected prop, he also represented Nelson Bays between 1997-2001, playing 44 times and scoring four tries.
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In 1999, he also played 12 times for the Marlborough Rugby Union., and played three times for the New Zealand Divisional XV on their tour of Samoa and Tonga.
“It was absolutely heartbreaking to hear the devastating news of the tragic passing of former West Coast representative Blair Mirfin,” The West Coast Rugby Union said in a statement on a Facebook post.
“Mirfin was a true character both on and off the field, and a rugged and dependable front-row forward who enjoyed a lengthy provincial rugby career spanning more than a decade.”
The union added that a moment’s silence would be held before each senior game to honour Mirfin.
Blaketown rugby also posted a tribute, describing “Mirf” as “an incredible man who meant so much to our Blaketown club”.
“Blair was one of four Senior team’s biggest supporters. His generosity, kindness and unwavering support touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He gave so much of himself, always quietly and without expectation and our club is better because of him.”
A statement from Marist added: “Blair played for Marist from 1997-2001 and was part of our Division 1 championship winning team in 2001.
“He was a tough uncompromising prop forward on the field but a big friendly giant of a man off it.
“But he was much more than a rugby player, he was a successful farmer and a loving father and great mate to many. Rest in peace Mirf.”
Grey Valley Rugby Club said they were “deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of our former club president, player, hard man and all round good bugger Blair Mirfin”.
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