Meet the parents of a Welsh rugby union fly-half who played, during the amateur era of the sport, in the 1960s, and early 1970s, Barry John. He was born on January 6, 1945, in Cefneithin, United Kingdom, and passed away on February 4, 2024, at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom, at the age of 79.
Barry John Parents: Meet Vimy John, William John
Barry John’s parents are Vimy John and William John. Unfortunately, no additional information is available about them beyond their names.
Barry John embarked on his rugby journey as a schoolboy with Cefneithin RFC before joining the esteemed Llanelli RFC in 1964. His talent swiftly earned him a place in the Wales national team in 1964, filling in for David Watkins against a touring Australian team.
In 1967, John switched to Cardiff RFC, forming an iconic half-back partnership with Gareth Edwards, renowned worldwide. The duo became inseparable, representing Cardiff, Wales, the Barbarians, and the British Lions during the 1968 South Africa tour, cut short by John’s unfortunate collarbone injury in the first Test.
The year 1971 marked Wales’ second ‘Golden Age.’ John played a pivotal role in the team’s success, securing the 1971 Five Nations Championship and Wales’ first Grand Slam since 1952. His stature as one of the sport’s legends solidified during the British Lions’ triumphant tour of New Zealand in 1971.
John showcased his brilliance in all four Tests, emerging as the top Test scorer for the Lions and contributing significantly to their historic victory.