40 Years On (1980–1984)

On Friday 4 September, we welcomed back the Class of 1980–1984 for our first reunion dinner of 2020. An eager group reunited at Strowan House for pre-dinner drinks as many reconnections were made and memories and laughs shared, especially while looking at the photo boards.

Guests were then piped into the dining room for the traditional Reunion Dinner. This featured a slightly unorthodox Address to the Haggis where OCA President, Jonathan Wells, Piper, Richard Hawke, along with Richard Smith and Scott Heasley enjoyed not one but two drams of whiskey as enthusiastic toasts to the piper and the haggis were had, much to the entertainment of those present. A lovely meal was shared alongside Rector, Christine Leighton, Board Chair, Bryan Pearson and Director of Development, Miranda Newbury.

The plans for Saturday were ever changing with Alert Levels being closely monitored. Unfortunately at Alert Level 2 the group were not able to attend the First XV rugby game against old foes Christ’s College, but thanks to the help of Louis Vieceli and The Bangalore Polo Club the group were able to watch the livestream of the game where the First XV took out a nail biting win, 33–31.

It was great to see almost 40 members of this year group get together for the occasion. Fingers crossed that in 2030 when they arrive back at the gates of St Andrew’s College to celebrate their 50 Years On reunion, travel restrictions are a thing of the past and even more members of this year group can join together.