Alexander Obolensky, Russian rugby player and pilot (d. 1940)

Prince Alexander Sergeevich Obolensky, born on 17 February 1916 and tragically deceased on 29 March 1940, was a figure of remarkable transition and enduring sporting legend. Descended from the ancient Rurikid dynasty, a lineage that traces its roots to the very founders of the Rus' state, Obolensky began life as a Russian prince in Petrograd, then the capital of the Russian Empire. However, the tumultuous political landscape of his birth country led his family to seek refuge, ultimately resulting in his naturalisation as a British citizen. He spent the predominant part of his life growing up and being educated in England, where he developed an extraordinary talent for rugby union, eventually earning the distinct honour of representing England on the international stage.

Known across generations of sports enthusiasts by evocative nicknames such as "The Flying Prince" and "The Flying Slav," or affectionately simplified to "Obo" by many fans, his name remains synonymous with dazzling speed and an unforgettable moment in rugby history. His brief but brilliant career left an indelible mark, not only for his aristocratic background but, more importantly, for his electrifying performances on the rugby field.

The Rurikid Lineage: From Russian Nobility to British Citizen

Born into one of Russia's most distinguished princely families, Alexander Obolensky's full name, Александр Серге́евич Оболенский, signifies his heritage. The Obolenskys were a branch of the Chernigov Rurikids, making him a direct descendant of Rurik, the legendary Varangian chieftain who established the first Rus' state in the 9th century. This lineage placed him at the pinnacle of Russian aristocracy. However, the seismic events of the 1917 Russian Revolution and the subsequent Civil War forced countless noble families, including the Obolenskys, to flee their homeland. Alexander, barely a year old when his family left Russia, grew up entirely in England, effectively becoming a naturalised Briton and integrating fully into British society, a stark contrast to his princely origins.

An English Education and the Birth of a Rugby Star

His formative years were spent in England, where he received an education at Trent College in Derbyshire, an independent boarding school. It was here that his athletic prowess began to emerge, particularly in rugby. Obolensky later attended Brasenose College, Oxford University, where he continued to hone his skills, earning a 'Blue' for rugby – an award for sportsmen achieving great distinction in competition between Oxford and Cambridge Universities. His talent was undeniable, quickly propelling him through club rugby with teams like Oxford University RFC and the formidable Leicester Tigers, setting the stage for his international call-up.

"The Flying Prince": A Rugby Legend is Forged

Alexander Obolensky's international rugby career, though tragically short, was incandescent. He made his debut for England in 1936, a highly anticipated match against the formidable New Zealand All Blacks at Twickenham on 4 January. This game was pivotal, as England had never before defeated the All Blacks. Obolensky's performance in this historic fixture cemented his legend. He scored two tries, one of which is still widely regarded as one of the greatest tries ever witnessed in international rugby. Receiving the ball on the halfway line, he embarked on a breathtaking, serpentine run, weaving through the entire All Blacks defence with incredible speed and agility before touching down in the corner. This iconic moment helped England secure a 13-0 victory, breaking their long-standing losing streak against New Zealand and instantly transforming Obolensky into a national hero. His distinctive style of play, characterized by electrifying pace and elusive sidesteps, perfectly embodied his famous nicknames, truly earning him the moniker of "The Flying Prince."

A Tragic End and Enduring Legacy

With the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, Prince Obolensky, like many young men of his generation, bravely answered the call to duty. He joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) and was commissioned as a Pilot Officer. His military service, however, was tragically cut short. On 29 March 1940, while undergoing training at RAF Martlesham Heath in Suffolk, he was killed when his Hawker Hurricane fighter aircraft crashed upon landing. He was just 24 years old. His untimely death sent shockwaves through the sporting world and the nation, marking a profound loss of both a promising young man and a sporting icon. Alexander Obolensky is interred at Ipswich New Cemetery, a somber reminder of a life of immense potential extinguished too soon.

His legacy in English rugby endures. He remains a symbol of sporting excellence, aristocratic grace, and patriotic sacrifice. His iconic try against the All Blacks is replayed and discussed to this day, a testament to his unique talent and the indelible mark he left on the game.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prince Alexander Obolensky

Who was Prince Alexander Obolensky?
Prince Alexander Sergeevich Obolensky was a Rurikid prince of Russian origin who became a naturalised British citizen and an iconic international rugby union player for England. He is renowned for his extraordinary speed and a famous try scored against the New Zealand All Blacks in 1936.
Why was he known as "The Flying Prince"?
His nickname, "The Flying Prince," stemmed from his aristocratic background combined with his electrifying speed and elusive running style on the rugby field. He was exceptionally fast and agile, often appearing to 'fly' past defenders.
When did Prince Obolensky play for England?
Prince Obolensky made his international debut for England in 1936 and played a total of four Test matches for his adopted country before his promising career was cut short by the outbreak of World War II.
How did Prince Alexander Obolensky die?
Prince Alexander Obolensky tragically died on 29 March 1940, at the age of 24, in a flying accident while serving as a Pilot Officer with the Royal Air Force (RAF) during a training exercise at RAF Martlesham Heath, piloting a Hawker Hurricane.
What was his most famous sporting achievement?
His most famous achievement was undoubtedly scoring two tries in England's historic 13-0 victory over the New Zealand All Blacks in 1936, particularly the second try, which involved a spectacular solo run from the halfway line, weaving through multiple defenders. This victory marked the first time England had ever beaten the All Blacks.