Merit Made Sir Garry Immortal — A Column by Basil Springer

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” — Proverbs 22:1

The passing of The Right Excellent Sir Garfield St. Auburn Sobers at the age of 89 has inspired captivating tributes from around the world. For us Barbadians, it has been a period of pride, reflection and sadness.

One tribute shared on “Mornin’ Barbados” captured the essence of Sir Garry’s extraordinary global stature.

Pearson Bowen interviewed Maurice Greenidge, a government official who accompanied Sir Garry on his travels while he served as an ambassador for Barbados.

Maurice recalled arriving in London from Bermuda, where Sir Garry wanted to purchase golf equipment. Their taxi had not arrived, so they took the first one in line, driven by an Indian gentleman living in London.

Sir Garry sat in the back, while Maurice took the front seat. “Where are you from?” the driver asked. “Barbados,” Maurice replied. “Barbados? Do you know Sir Garfield Sobers?” Maurice happened to be holding Sir Garry’s passport. “Do I know him? Not only do I know him, but here is his passport — and he is sitting in the back seat.”

The driver slammed on the brakes in disbelief. Thankfully, no accident occurred. After recovering from the shock, he asked where they wished to go. When Maurice told him they were looking for a golf shop, the driver replied, “I know exactly where to take you.”

Fifteen minutes later, pandemonium broke out as the great master was recognized inside the shop. Sir Garry selected his equipment and went to pay.