Obituary Bobby Smyth, Ballymena -

[willie reynolds]

SINCERE CONDOLENCES

It is with heavy heart and sincere sadness that I report the sad passing, this morning at Slemish Nursing Home - Ballymena - of Mr Bobby Smyth in his 96th year - Bobby was one of the legends of the sport and along with brother Hughie was world famous flying as Smyth Bros. Their Kenyon family won every possible award at the distance and will be remembered for many years to come - Sincere condolences to the Smyth Family Circle. New Kid on the Block.

[willie reynolds]

We had the sad news during the week that Bobby Smyth a life member in his home club Ballymena & District had passed away in his 96th year. Bobby and his late brother Hughie when racing were a household name in the sport, if fact Smyth Bros were World Famous! In those old days they competed in Ballymena with some of the best lofts in the sport, their own record at the distance is talked about yet. The loft won from all points through to France, they won 2nd in the Kings Cup and 2nd in the Old Bird Derby, 1st in the Friendship Nat from Sartilly in 1991 and also won the Blue Riband YB National from Milford Haven in 1962. They raced many top class birds none better than the famous “Leading Lady”. Long before Hall of Fame Diplomas and Gold Medals she would have won both, in successive races in the Kings Cup she finished 4th, 6th, 9th & 21st Open INFC. They don’t make them like that anymore. Their Kenyon family of birds won every possible award at the distance and will be remembered for many years to come. HOMER.