Rugby Union is a game with very distinct characteristics. Not least among these is that of the alakadoos*,

who remain fanatical supporters of their clubs and unions long after they hang up their boots. Such Patrons

have been around since the very beginning of the game in East Africa in the 1900s. In a formal sense,

"The Rugby Patrons" started way back in 1953 with the formation of the Rugby Football Union of East Africa

("RFUEA"). The Patrons of the day contributed funds to enable the building of the Ngong Road Ground. Their

contribution was recognized in the RUFEA Constitution that dealt specifically with Patrons, and reserved for

them seats in the new Stand.

 

Such privileges are a thing of the past, but the concept of the "Patron" envisaged

closely associated with Rugby in this country for many, many years) together with fellow patrons facilitated the

advent of today's Rugby Patrons Society separate from, but supportive of, the RFUEA, the KRFU and the clubs.

 

The objectives are unchanging: to create and maintain a body of like-minded persons interested in the promotion

of the game. Members are those invited to be Patrons and who can be relied upon for active support and assistance

when required. They share a deep rooted affection for the game and its development in Kenya and the region.

Support of rugby by Patrons is usually done in a low-key manner and sometimes anonymously. Over the years,

there have been many ways in which the Society and Patrons individually have been able to help. Ranging from

materials, funds, expertise and counsel; from referees, through mini-rugby, junior coaching, to irrigation and bricks

and mortar; each has their place in the facilitation of the game. But perhaps the most important today was the initiation

of the "Safari Sevens".

 

The whole concept of the Safari Sevens was the brainchild of Robin Cahill, a founder member

of the Rugby Patrons Society. Supported by the Society, he masterminded and led a team of Patrons to run all the

early years of the competition, and oversaw its integration as an enduring event of the Kenya Rugby Football Union's

calendar, where is now enjoys an international standing.

*Alakadoo n. sometime players who, because of multiple injuries, body part transplant, senility,

wealth, or a combination of the above, travel on rugby tours and pontificate but do not play.

Another characteristic of former players is their stamina at social occasions where the patrons will relive, to the delight

of their fascinated and captured audience, their prowess on earlier fields of play. The Patrons hold three firm annual

fixtures:

The Annual General Meeting for the year to 30 September, 2008 was held in February 2009 at the Rusty Nail Restaurant.

About 40 members normally attend it but it must be remembered that many live upcountry or are scattered around the

world. The AGM deals rapidly with the formal business and is normally followed by a barbeque to which wives and the

guests of Patrons are invited. Safari Sevens: while individual Patrons are engaged in organization and management of

the Safari Sevens, the most visible support is the Patrons tent. Here hospitality is second to none for members and their

guests throughout the weekend and is extremely popular; the best coffee, cold wine and beer, food at all hours and

great company. Usually we include a large flat screen to allow Patrons to watch replays and to follow con-current

important matches. Annual dinner: this is an all male black-tie occasion for Patrons and guests, normally held in October

and 90 to 100 attend. Our speakers are Rugby personalities of international renown including in recent years Tommy

Bedford, David Duckham, David Watkins, Ian Robertson and Terry Cobner.

Development at RFUEA ground: four of the Patron’s committee members participate in the Ground Development Group,

an advisory committee established by KRFU. Current focus of the group is the provision of a secure water supply.

Permissions have been obtained and drilling is about to start. The borehole is Phase 1 of 5, which include development

of the second pitch, securing the perimeter and, ultimately, constructing a 15,000 to 20,000 seat stadium. Funding for

Phase 1 includes Patrons’ finance of consultants.

Age grade rugby:

The KRFU are running a very successful programme for boys and girls aged 10 to 14 on Sunday afternoons. At

present, there are 10 venues with a total of c. 600 very enthusiastic young players drawn from schools that do not

play rugby; many from among the very poor including those from the Kibera slums. Patrons support provides snacks,

drinks, playing kit and some medical kits.

Patrons membership currently number over 300, scattered around the world: many are getting on in years and are

encouraged to propose new suitable candidates for membership. Patrons will continue to work closely with KRFU

particularly on identified phases for development at RFUEA grounds.