Guildford tragedy at JWC final

New Zealand Under 20 wing, Zac Guildford, experienced a major family tragedy after his father, Robert, passed away at the final of the International Rugby Board Junior World Championships in Tokyo on Sunday.

It is understood Robert Guildford suffered a heart attack at the conclusion of the game and despite attempts to resuscitate him at the ground and at a Tokyo hospital, he passed away.

Robert was a former Wairarapa Bush player who played 39 games for the province between 1992 and 1996. In recent years, he had seen his son rise to prominence as a national age-grade, Hawke’s Bay and Hurricanes winger, while also winning back to back world titles with the New Zealand Under 20 teams.

NZRU CEO Steve Tew said the thoughts of all those involved in New Zealand rugby and especially those of the regions where both Robert and Zac Guildford have played their rugby would be with the family at this sad time.

“Our thoughts are with Zac, his mother Debbie and Zac’s brother who have had to deal with this tragedy at what should have been the best of times, enjoying their son’s achievements with a team that has excelled on the world stage.

“It is an incredibly distressing event for all involved but especially for the Guildford family and their extended family and friends.

“The NZRU is working with them and the New Zealand Embassy to assist in getting the family back to New Zealand where they can continue the grieving process.”