Kandy’s versatile sportsman M Thahir who excelled in football and hockey has died at the age of 77.
Thahir is remembered for his excellent abilities as a midfielder in both sports. He passed away on Tuesday and his funeral took place on the same day at the Mahiayawa Katupali Muslim burial ground.
Thahir initially excelled at sports at St. Paul’s College Kandy now known as Wariyapola Sri Sumangala College where he played football, hockey and was also a track and field athelete.
While still a schoolboy he played for Young Stars Sports Club in both football and hockey and later for the Kandy District as his prowess was recognised.
After leaving school he was grabbed by the Air Force whose jersey he donned with distinction while also representing the Defence Services teams.
Some of Thahir’s football team mates were goalkeeper Terrance, Preena, Sadikeen, Thirunayake, Hamilton, Vithanage, Hassimdeen, Aluvihare, Dougie, David, Baladez and his brothers Anver, Fuard, Zayaer and Nazeer who were all top footballers.
After his retirement Thahir came back to his old house at Castle Street, now known as E.L. Senanayake Street and was with Echole International School for nearly 12 years as its sports teacher.
He was the father of a son and daughter.