Anthony Wilson (1948-2020)
The London Clubs Backgammon League lost one of its founders last week, Anthony Wilson of the Hurlingham Club has passed away at the age of 71. Anthony was half-Greek, and played from an early age. He lived in New York in the 1970’s, and rekindled his interest by taking lessons from Tim Holland. Anthony’s other passion was real tennis, aiming to play on all the courts in the world (he did). In 2004, he was playing with Corin Jenkins at the uber-smart Racket and Tennis Club in New York. They learned that the modern rules of backgammon were set out in their Park Avenue rooms in 1931. This sounded too good an idea not to copy, so Hurlingham soon had a Backgammon section. The next step was to find opponents, so a friendly match was arranged that December with the RAC Club, captained by Edward Baliszewski. This led to the formation of a League that now includes ten Clubs, a source of much fun and competition.
Anthony played much of his backgammon behind closed doors, but will be remembered as a fearsome opponent, a friend to all, and a true gentleman of the game.
Nicholas Boles
Chairman, Hurlingham Club Backgammon
A gentleman in the truest sense. Anthony’s easy charm, ready smile and fierce determination in competition as well as in life, will be missed by all. RIP Anthony Wilson.
Always kind and wise with a ready smile. I was lucky to call him a friend, I miss him.
I was so sorry to hear this news. Anthony was a warm and lovely man to know and I enjoyed both our backgammon games and just chatting to him. My condolences to all his family.
Anthony was charm personified, always a kind smile, a good humour and a fierce player. A warm and wonderful man. You will be missed by so many. X
All my interactions with Anthony were delightful; he was kind, charming and always welcoming. RIP.
A true gentleman who fought his long illness with immense determination. We will all miss him.
RIP.
An absolutely delightful man – he will be sorely missed