It is with regret that the Board of Directors of Ballymena RFC inform members of the passing of former Ballymena, Ulster and Irish International, Barton McCallan. A former pupil of BRA, Barton was an excellent all-round sportsman being wicket-keeper on their 1st XI cricket team, a member of their senior water polo team and member of a highly successful life-saving team.
However, Barton’s sporting prowess was most evident in rugby. He was a member of their 1st XV for three years and team captain in the 1953-54 and 1954-55 seasons when he was selected for the Ulster Schools’ XV. On leaving School in 1955, Barton went to Queen’s University and in October 1956, while only in his second year of university rugby, made his debut for Ulster.
Barton joined Ballymena in 1958 and continued to play for Ulster before making his debut for Ireland in February 1960 against England at Twickenham, and obtained a second cap against Scotland at Lansdowne Road.
Barton was one of several provincial and international players who won the Senior Cup with Ballymena in 1962-63.
On behalf of everyone connected with Ballymena RFC could we extend our sincere condolences to his wife Lydia, son Lewis and to all who mourn his passing.
A Service of Thanksgiving will be held on Friday 31st October at 1pm at St. Patrick’s Church, Ballymacarrett, Belfast.
