David Bloomer, badminton player and official; born September 1, 1912, died January 15, 1996.
SCOTTISH badminton became known worldwide as a result of the efforts and personality of David Bloomer who has died, aged 83. His promotion of the series of World Invitation badminton tournaments in Glasgow's Kelvin Hall introduced the Scottish public to the highest levels of the sport and put the Kelvin Hall on the international map.
David Bloomer was born in Govan in September, 1912, around the time of the controversial decision to incorporate the burgh into Glasgow. In common with many others, his sporting experience began in the sports clubs of the shipyards. A promising badminton career was interrupted by war. David Bloomer served in the Merchant Navy, leaving for duty just after his marriage in September, 1940.
When sport resumed in 1946-47 he was selected for Scotland and remained in the team until 1951. He played in the early matches of the first Thomas Cup contest - the newly-formed men's international team competition (against England at Leicester).
Scotland promoted the first Thomas Cup semi-final in Kelvin Hall when Malaya beat the United States 6-3 in what was then regarded as the finest international match ever played. Large and enthusiastic crowds watched both days of play and inspired David Bloomer's promotional instincts - the World Invitation tournaments followed and became among the most prized invitations in world badminton.
He joined the council of the International Badminton Federation in 1953 - representing USA (to reduce travel costs) - and became its president in 1965. He had been president of the Scottish Badminton Union from 1960-62 and with his international experience developed into the leading official of his day. He became a member of the newly-formed Scottish Sports Council in 1972 and was chairman of its Sports Development Committee.
In 1938 he established his own insurance broking business in Glasgow, which continues in his name to this day. He was a man of incisive mind with a quick wit and a great gift of language. He became formidable in debate, an excellent raconteur and a fine after dinner speaker.
Evenings in the Bloomer homes in Shields Road, Wemyss Bay, and, latterly, Pollokshields became special memories for all of those privileged to enjoy them - and they came from all over the world. His contributions to his sport, his city and his friends, marked him out as a very special man.
His wife, Alice, died in 1981. He is survived by his son, Keir, and his family.
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