BFA pay tribute to X-Roads' Uthmani Talbot

The Bermuda Football Association said late X-Roads player Uthmani Talbot, who died in a motorcycle accident on Saturday morning, will “live on in our memories”.

The 24-year-old passed away as a result of his injuries suffered in a collision on Harrington Sound Round at around 3:20am. Police believe he lost control of his motorcycle and struck a parked car and a wall.

X-Roads’ First Division game against Ireland Rangers was postponed and a minute’s silence was observed at games on Sunday as a mark of respect.

BFA president Larry Mussenden said in a statement: “On behalf of the executive, staff, our member clubs and the family of football in Bermuda, we extend our sincere condolences to the Talbot family and the X-Roads Football Club family on the passing of Uthmani.

“We are well aware that Uthmani was a keen and talented football player who hailed from an equally talented football family. He was able to represent his community and club with immense pride. Additionally, we are honoured that he was the first ever recipient of a BFA Legends Scholarship, in honour of legend Rueben Alias, for $15,000 for each of the academic years of 2007 and 2008. Other recipients in 2007 were Kenette Burgess, Waynesha Bean, Shantel Deshields, Matthew Madeiros and Clyde Darrell — all football scholars alike.

“We were all proud that Uthmani completed his studies in accountancy and returned to Bermuda to pursue a career as a qualified accountant. More recently, in some meetings with the BFA, we were pleased to see that Uthmani was involved in the administration and future development of X-Roads. Please take warm comfort in the knowledge that we all know that Uthmani made you very proud.

“We are all saddened by the passing of Uthmani and know that he will be a huge loss to you. We trust that he will live on in our memories and in other kind deeds done on his behalf. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.”