Pontypridd RFC has announced the death of Bob Penberthy, the club's record appearance holder, at the age of 82. The second row forward played 877 games for the club between 1961 and 1985, an unequalled milestone that stands as a testament to his dedication and durability.
Tributes from the Club
The club released a statement on Monday evening describing Penberthy as 'one of Pontypridd RFC’s greatest ever players, our record appearance holder and a true club icon.' The statement highlighted his 'granite hard' playing style and his continued support of the club after retirement, often seen in the crowd at home and away matches.
Born and bred in Pontypridd, Penberthy also represented the Barbarians during his career. His service to the club and Welsh rugby was honoured in 2013 with a tribute dinner at Sardis Road, organised by the Welsh Charitables RFC and attended by many of the game's greats.
Legacy Beyond the Pitch
The club noted that Penberthy's legacy lives on through the naming of the Lounge Bar after him, the 'Golden Bob' grogg awarded to Pontypridd man of the match winners, and a stone engraving of the lock hanging on the clubhouse wall. 'He was a gentle giant, a genial and unassuming man in contrast to his dogged physicality on the field of play,' the statement added.
The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Penberthy's family and close friends in their time of loss.
