HAMPSHIRE REMEMBERS
It is with a terrible sadness that we acknowledge with the utmost respect to all involved the recent loss of special friends who their own ways contributed so much to the Sport of darts in Hampshire and beyond.
RHODA HARBY
Rhoda was a pioneer in Ladies Darts and her successes in the sport are legendary.
Rhoda was Hampshire’s first Ladies England International Player and together with other talented players she was instrumental in helping to set standards within the Hampshire Ladies Teams that have been their strength leading to so many successes over so many years and still apply to the present day.
Rhoda made 147 appearances for Hampshire in a darts career that spanned some 25 years which included a period when she played for the West of England.
During her playing career Rhoda reached No 4 in the World Rankings and No 2 in Great Britain Rankings – a superb record that showcases her outstanding talent and consistency.
After their inception into the BDO system Rhoda was also the first Hampshire Ladies player to qualify for The British Gold Cup and the World Masters and reached the Final of the Gold Cup Ladies Singles in 1987 and reached the Semi-Finals of the World Masters in 1982.
Rhoda was a very popular player, always willing to give advice and with a personality to match, loving wife, mother and grandmother who will be sadly missed by all that were privileged to have known her.
Now safely back in the arms of her husband Brian we can only thank Rhoda for her friendship and for being such an inspiration to so many.
Our commiserations and deepest sympathies go to Shane, Mel and all of the family at this very sad time.
From all at Hampshire County Darts Organisation
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RICK COUSINS
Rick was for many years an Official for Hampshire County Darts Organisation acting as Senior MC at Inter county matches, Hampshire Opens, Youth Events and for some 16 x years was a key
member of the Mill Rythe team of Officials at the Hayling Island Darts weekends where with like-minded personnel he worked so hard to ensure that professional presentation and fair play were paramount.
Without fail Rick would arrive at Hayling on the Thursday morning and work tirelessly at whatever needed to be done until the very last dart was thrown in the Sunday afternoon Finals and the final piece of equipment was stored away.
Away from the dartboards Rick was a devoted husband to Sandra and an extremely proud family man who took great pleasure in speaking enthusiastically of his family life and of the of the happy celebrations they all shared in worldwide locations.
Rick stood for everything that is good and honest in both the sport he loved so much and life in general and he leaves us all with so many happy memories plus a long and lasting legacy that will never be forgotten.
Sleep well Rick we will all miss you
Our condolences go to all of Rick’s family at this very sad and difficult time
From Frank Branscombe and all at Hampshire County Darts Organisation