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Late last year, I had the incredible privilege of photographing Oom Frik du Preez’s 90th birthday celebration, and it turned out to be so much more than just a party.
As I moved through the room with my camera, I listened. Old teammates, friends, and family shared stories, some funny, some emotional, all filled with deep respect. One thing came through again and again. Oom Frik was not only a giant on the rugby field, he was an even greater human being off it.
What struck me most was how he spoke to people. Every conversation mattered. No rushing. No ego. Just genuine interest, warmth, and kindness. People didn’t only talk about his achievements or his legendary status. They spoke about his character. His humanity.
In that moment, it became clear that I wasn’t simply photographing a birthday celebration. I was standing in the presence of rugby royalty. Not the kind that stands above others, but the kind that makes everyone else feel taller just by being there.
Being trusted to capture moments of the oldest living Springbok, a true living legend, is something I don’t take lightly. Opportunities like this don’t come often, and I felt incredibly fortunate to be there, camera in hand, quietly witnessing history wrapped in humility.
Thank you, Oom Frik. Not only for what you have given to rugby, but for what you have given to people.
An evening I will not forget anytime soon.
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