We met in the Autumn sunshine to say our farewells to Daz H, Darren Holloway.
Hundreds of family and friends packed into the service, I’d stitched 43 club coloured ribbons for his club mates to wear, it wasn’t enough we were some short.
It was a service that flowed with fond memories of his life and loves, and captured him so well. Many, many tears were shed. This is my favourite photo of Daz, I think it is an iconic image of him: Daz in full flight.
Here are the words that were read at the service, written by a fell running friend Mr 1470, they too capture the essence of Daz.
"Some news just hits you like a bolt from the blue, so unexpected, so bizarre in its nature that it fails to register in your cerebral cortex. It seems like a dream, and you fully expect to wake next morning to find the earth back on its true axis.
After that initial hit, the news creeps insidiously into every pore of your being, overwhelming you with a sadness that just floors you, unable to articulate your feelings and leaving you alone with your thoughts and memories.
On this grey, cold Highland morning, as the mist parts and the hillside across the loch becomes visible, I can’t help but see him descending, as graceful as a gazelle on his favourite rocky, bouldery terrain, lost in a world of concentration, his face contorted with effort, his eyes locked in an almost thousand yard stare, his knee and elbow bloodied from some earlier fall.
He’s gaining now on his rivals (and friends!) and nothing will distract him from his desire to reel them in. I shout encouragement….”go on Darren!”….but there’s not a flicker, he’s immersed in his gladiatorial battle.
As the ground flattens out, he strains every sinew to hold position as the finish line approaches. He crosses the line, totally spent, not an ounce of energy left, having given 100% (as he did to everything in life).
And then, just as suddenly, his demeanour changes and he’s all smiles and handshakes and offering words of congratulations to those around him. But it’s not for him to slink off towards the cafe or the pub with the rest of the front runners. Cup of water in hand, he walks back up the last part of the course, cheering, greeting and offering encouragement to those of us who can only dream of the level of performance which he delivers time and time again.
The word “legend” is much overused these days. He deserves that title, for his mastery of the fells, for his ability to make everyone feel special with well chosen words, for his deep understanding and appreciation of the ethos, history and legacy of the sports he loved, for the total enthusiasm with which he led his life. I only hope he knew just how much people thought of him.
The world is a sadder place for the passing of such people. My world is a sadder place this morning. He showed me true friendship, kindness, support and inspiration. To say I admired and respected him would be a massive understatement. My thoughts are especially with those whom he loved and who loved him. It must be so hard to take in….."
And this was the music
October 20, 2012 at 6:22 pm
Such a beautiful tribute to a fallen friend.
October 21, 2012 at 6:46 am
Thank you for sharing this heartfelt tribute. I can imagine how truly touching the service was as he was remembered by all those who knew him. He was held in high esteem for so many reasons and has left a lasting legacy.
October 22, 2012 at 1:27 am
To feel deeply – to live fully – to know surpassing joy – surely this is the finest tribute to all creation.
October 22, 2012 at 9:33 am
A poignant post. xx
October 22, 2012 at 7:19 pm
DEEPEST SYMPATHY.
October 23, 2012 at 9:04 am
That was a very moving and beautifully-written tribute. It must have been very difficult to deliver. I don’t know how people manage to speak at funerals, yet there is always someone who can.
November 28, 2012 at 4:19 am
Don’t know how I missed this post but am certainly glad I found it, although belatedly. What a beautiful, heartfelt tribute. It’s one of the very best I’ve ever read, and I thank you for sharing it.