Tributes pour in for Rudi Jacobs

The South African bowling community is mourning the passing of ex-Proteas star Rudi Jacobs.

Jacobs, who received his first call up to the national team in 1998, passed away suddenly this weekend.

A fierce competitor on the green and d gentleman off of it, Jacob was well known and liked across the greens of South Africa.

“A bowling legend has left us way too soon…Aero expresses deepest sympathy to Tracy - family and friends…..RIP Rudi Jacobs,” wrote Gerry Baker on social media.

The news reached Australia where Australian bowls star Kelvin Kerkow wrote: “Condolences RIP Rudi”.

Athur Langley wrote: “RIP Rudi. Condolences to the family and friends” on a post where many bowlers expressed their sadness at the news.

“Very sad news. Sincere condolences to Tracy, family and friends. Rest in Peace Rudi you will be missed on & off the green,” wrote Jenny Jones while current Proteas player Wayne Rittmuller added: “Very sad to hear of Rudi's passing. A great Bowler and a great man. He will be greatly missed by all. Condolences to his family. RIP Rudi.”

Proteas star Esme Kruger added: “My woorde is min vandag na die skokkende nuus van n legende in die rolbal wêreld, Rudi Jacobs wat vandag die lewe verruil het vir die ewige lewe. Rus in Vrede Rudi. Aan Tracy Jacobs en Natassha Jonker en die res van die familie, sterkte. Julle is in ons almal se gebede.”

Wayne Roberts, another Gold squad player, shared a photo on his social media account:

The news reached the UK where well known bowls personality Jason Parkinson wrote: ‘What an amazing man, I was so lucky to meet him with you guys and have a good few beers and laughs. RIP Rudi Jacobs.”

Jacobs ended second in the last two editions of the BSA Masters in the Veterans division to go with his 2015 victory in the Open division.

Bowls South Africa is deeply saddened by his passing and has expressed their sincere condolences to his wife Tracy, daughter Natassha and his three grandsons.