San Diego architect and former U.S. Eagles rugby player Graham ‘Basher’ Downes was remembered in a Celebration of Life held during the weekend matches of his former club the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club (OMBAC).
Downes died of injuries sustained when he was assaulted by one of his employees, Higinio Soriano Salgado, 31, outside his home in Bankers Hill. Downes’ skull was fractured in numerous areas, according to the District Attorney’s Office.
After arriving in the United States from South Africa in 1986, Downes set the foundation for a successful career in architecture while continuing his passion of playing rugby. He joined OMBAC as a player, represented the Eagles at the 1987 Rugby World Cup, coached for OMBAC, and continued to be an avid supporter of the club.
OMBAC paid their tribute to Downes at their weekend matches by requesting that fans make a $5 donation to the Graham Downes Scholarship Fund rather than paying the regular admission price. The Little Q, the San Diego Chargers old practice facility, held a tribute to Downes and players, friends, and those touched by Downes were able to say a few words in Graham’s memory at an open mic between OMBAC’s A and B side matches.
Professionally Downes built the Graham Downes Architecture firm. The firm was known for its work on the Hard Rock Hotel, Bali Hai restaurant on Shelter Island, Tower 23 Hotel, Palomar Hotel, Charlotte Russe, Hivehaus, and other urban transformations in East Village and Barrio Logan.
For rugby players who would like to donate to the Graham Downes Scholarship Fund, please mail a check to:
Jon Hinkin
c/o Graham Downes
5047 67th Street
San Diego, CA 92115
Source : http://www.rugbyrugby.com/news/by_country/u_s/7010671/former_eagle____basher____downes_remembered