FAREWELL, MY FRIEND

Dick Pratt 21.08.1943 – 15.03.2024

By Erwin Bursik

ATRUE friend is one who seldom asks for anything,yet provides unflinching,unending support and loyalty to those he considers his mates.This was Richard Basil Alban Pratt – Dick to all who knew him,especially in South Africa’s deep sea angling fraternity.

I enjoyed the honour of being his mate for over 40 years until his passing on 15 March 2024.

In 1983 I was introduced to this senior Barlows executive in my office at Huletts Corporation.It took all of 30 seconds for the two of us to realise we shared the same passion – deep sea fishing.

With both of us becoming involved in the South African ski-boat angling associations representing our respective provinces,a bond was soon formed.This bond soon developed into an exceptional friendship which was cemeneted through all the time we spent together while fishing,hunting and travelling.Those times were interesting and enjoyable and resulted in memories I will always treasure.

Dick’s resume with regard to deep sea angling is more than impressive.He first got involved in the sport in the mid 1970s,and while representing what was then Southern Transvaal,he became SASBA treasurer and was very instrumental in the amalgamation of the association with the South African Game Fish Association (SAGFA).

SADSAA was duly created and in 1996 Dick was appointed President for a number of years,and thereafter National and International Tournaments Director until he “retired”a few years ago.

Dick was a highly accomplished light tackle gamefish angler, obtaining both Springbok and Protea colours fishing in tournaments in East Africa and overseas.

He was a true diplomat, and this facet of his character ensured that no matter what aspect of deep sea angling he committed himself to, he brought with him a structured, calm and successful way forward for our national association.

On a personal level,Dick and I undertook an annual hunting trip to Anib Lodge in Namibia for the last 20-odd years, which involved two days driving each way.“What do you two ‘Ballies’ talk about on these trips?”we were often asked.The answer was easy: “SADSAA!” in between the mandatory snoozes slotted in among the driving shifts, of course.

Over the 40 years we were friends,Dick somehow managed to calm my aggressive nature to the point that we hardly ever had a disagreement and certainly never ever came to verbal blows.

I personally held Dick in the highest possible esteem, and my association with him and Jackie, his wife, greatly impacted mine and Annie’s lives for the better.

Dick, thank you, Mate.I will never forget you.Rest in peace, free from pain and trauma.In the red dunes of the Kalahari in July, this year’s hunting party will toast you and your memory.