September 12th is the birthday of Raymond William Robert Gravell’s affectionately known to all as Grav.
Grav: A Legend Who Carried Wales in His Heart
When you mention Ray Gravell in Wales, eyes light up. Some remember the crunching tackles and fearless charges in a red jersey. Others recall the booming laugh, the mischievous stories, and his pride in speaking Welsh wherever he went. For most, though, he was simply Grav — a man who embodied the beating heart of his nation.
The Llanelli Years
Born in Carmarthenshire in 1951, Gravell’s rugby destiny was forged at Llanelli RFC, the club where his name would become folklore. Supporters loved him not because he was flashy — he wasn’t — but because he was utterly dependable. When Gravell pulled on the scarlet jersey, you knew he’d give everything: the big tackles, the fearless runs, and above all, his loyalty to his teammates.
One famous story tells of Llanelli’s legendary 1972 victory over the All Blacks. Gravell wasn’t even in the team that day — but he celebrated as though he had scored the winning try himself. That was Gravell: rugby wasn’t about him, it was about us.
Wearing the Red of Wales
Between 1975 and 1982, Gravell won 23 caps for Wales, during one of the country’s golden eras in the Five Nations. He was known for his hard running and bruising defence, often putting his body on the line without a second thought. Teammates loved him because they knew he’d never shirk a tackle, never take a backward step.
In 1980, he earned a coveted place on the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa, a recognition of his qualities not just as a player but as a character who lifted those around him.
Larger Than Life
But Gravell’s story didn’t end with rugby. His personality was too big to stay confined to the pitch. He became a broadcaster, actor, and public speaker, bringing his natural charisma to television and radio. Whether telling stories in Welsh or English, he had the rare ability to make everyone feel like an old friend.
His pride in being Welsh was unshakeable. He spoke often about his culture and language, reminding people that rugby was part of something much larger — the identity of a nation.
A Sudden Goodbye
In 2007, Gravell died suddenly at the age of 56. Wales was stunned. His funeral at Stradey Park drew thousands, turning the ground into a sea of red scarves, tears, and laughter as people shared memories. It was not just a farewell to a rugby player, but to a man who had become a symbol of community and belonging.
The Legacy of Grav
The Ray Gravell & Friends Charitable Trust continues his work today, supporting causes close to his heart. But Grav’s truest legacy lies in the stories told about him: of his warmth, his humour, his bravery on the pitch, and his love for Wales.
He wasn’t just a rugby player. He was a reminder of what it means to give everything for your team, your people, and your country.
Ray Gravell once said, “Rugby isn’t about you, it’s about the jersey and those who wore it before you.” For Grav, that jersey was always red — scarlet or Welsh — and he wore it with pride until the very end.
