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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Simon Thomas

Popular Welsh rugby player killed in motorcycle accident

Tributes have been pouring in following the death of a hugely popular Welsh rugby club stalwart.

Riaz Majothi was killed in a motorcycle accident near Builth Wells on Monday at the age of just 36.

He had been a long-serving player and coach with Beddau RFC and his tragic death has hit everyone at the club hard.

There have also been countless messages of condolence posted from clubs across Wales and by individuals.

Majothi had been involved with Beddau RFC since he was a young boy playing mini rugby.

He went on to be a prop forward for both the first and second team, covering both sides of the scrum.

After hanging up his boots, he then coached the seconds with great success, guiding them to the double in 2017.

Club chairman Mal Davies said: “It was devastating to hear the news of his tragic death.

“Riaz was loved by all who had the privilege to know him.

“He was a massive, larger-than-life character within the club. He filled the room with his presence.

“He was one for the banter and he would give it as good as he could take it.

“It was always entertaining in his company and I am sure everybody would say that.

“He was the heart and soul of the club. He was unique.

“He was a caring person who had time for everyone, young and old, a true gentleman who will be missed by our club, as well as our community.

“He was respected by the whole rugby community, as shown by the many tributes paid on social media.

“It’s a massive loss to the club. He was one of our greatest characters.

“We will miss him dearly and our love goes out to his family, friends and everybody who will have been touched by this sad news.”

Welsh international Lee Jarvis, the former Beddau coach, added his own tribute.

“Riaz was a cracking bloke,” he said.

“He was friends with everyone and always had time for you.

“He was such a big character. He will be a huge loss to everyone who knew him.

“He was such a popular figure.”

Former Beddau team manager Jamie Wills said: “Our club is the focal point of the village.

“We are an old coal mining area and everyone still knows everyone and looks out for everyone.

“Riaz was the club joker, always keeping people happy with his antics, always smiling and helping others.

“He was one of the nicest guys you could meet.

“It’s really heartbreaking.”

Among the rugby clubs who have posted messages of condolence are Llantrisant, Treorchy, Ferndale, Penygraig, Resolven, Trebanos and Llandaff.

You can leave your tributes to Riaz in the comments below.

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