Tributes pour in for sports icon

Ravi Padayachee, regarded as something of a sport icon on the mid South Coast, died on January 10, aged 57.

He was born and raised in Umzinto and was a part of many sporting institutions and events in and around the area over many years.

Ravi was president of the Umzinto and Districts Cricket Union and had been since 1996, having played an integral role in its launch.

He was president of the Ugu District Cricket Union in 2018, and was also the chairman of the KZN Cricket Union Coastal, as well as serving on the KZN Cricket Union’s general council.

Ravi facilitated, and was involved in, an endless list of sporting events, including the opening of the ICC Umzinto Sports Arena, with a strong focus on junior soccer.

Following his death, tributes poured in on social media for a man who was greatly loved and highly respected.

They acknowledged his passion for sport over the years and his willingness to help players to bring out the best of their abilities.

He was described by many as a man with great integrity and is someone who will be missed dearly by family, friends, members of the sporting fraternity and the ICC Umzinto.

Ravi was cremated at the Clare Estate Crematorium on Thursday last week.

He is survived by his wife Delosha and daughter Chandini.

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