WELL RESPECTED: Clarke is remembered for his fearless and honest nature
RAY CLARKE started work for the British Boxing Board of Control in 1946 after serving in the Royal Navy during World War II (rum was always his favourite tipple). He worked under the Board’s first General Secretary, Charles Donmal and was Assistant General Secretary to the second, Teddy Waltham.
He succeeded Waltham in 1972 and also became Honorary Secretary of what was then called the Commonwealth Championships Committee, a position he handed on to me in 1980. Despite his authoritative manner and sternsounding voice, he was actually a very benevolent boss who gave me great encouragement during those early years when I was finding my way.