Even at 75, Barry was a winner

"The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example"

That quote by 19th century British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli might have been composed in honour of Mick Barry. His name is forever associated with road bowling and with it the legacy of great example in his chosen sport, in his work and with family and friends. That message was springing from the lips of thousands of bowling fans, colleagues, friends and family over the past few days.

Every bowlplayer of note, some not too much younger than Barry and some who never saw a bowl in his hand, turned out to offer their respects. Every arena, every score he played seemed to be in the ether. Tremendous shots that turned defeat into victory, the rare Waterloo along the way, when someone became the Duke of Wellington for felling Napoleon on an off day.