Lions Centre Aki’s Baby Born in Car Before First Test – A Remarkable Story of Strength and Serendipity
The British and Irish Lions’ tour of Australia was packed with unforgettable moments, but few were as extraordinary as Bundee Aki’s personal tale. Following the Lions’ thrilling series-clinching victory over Australia in Sydney, the Ireland centre shared an incredible story—one that had remained private until now.
Just before the first Test in Brisbane, while Aki was in camp with the Lions, his wife, Kayla, went into labor in New Zealand. What unfolded next was a scene fit for a movie: their fifth child, little Aine, was born in the back of a car en route to the hospital.
A Father’s Pride and a Wife’s Remarkable Strength
Aki couldn’t hide his joy and admiration for his wife when recounting the whirlwind moment. She’s a powerful woman, a strong woman, he said with a grin. If you only knew the story of what happened—it’s a funny one in itself.
Kayla had already delivered four children in different settings—one in a hospital and three at home. But this time, the arrival of Aine was nothing short of dramatic. With contractions intensifying, Kayla and her mother were on their way to the hospital when the baby decided it was time.
She video-called me, Aki recalled, still in awe. And I saw a baby on the screen. She’d had her in the car. Both of them were strong and healthy—happy days!
Good Luck for the Lions?
The Lions’ first Test against Australia came just hours after the birth, and Aki was convinced it was a sign of good fortune. Coming off the bench in the 57th minute, he played his part in a decisive 27-19 win.
I knew it was good ‘Juju,’ he said, referring to the belief in the baby’s birth as a magical omen. I knew we were going to have a good day.
The Lions went on to seal the series in Melbourne, cementing a triumphant tour. And while the team celebrated their on-field success, Aki had another victory to cherish—the safe arrival of his daughter.
A Family of ‘A’s
The Aki family has a charming tradition—all five of their children’s names begin with the letter ‘A.’
Armani, Adrianna, Andronicus, Ailbhe, and now Aine, Bundee said proudly. Aine, meaning ‘radiance’ or ‘splendor’ in Irish Gaelic, was a name his wife loved, and it now completes their quintet of ‘A’ names.
The Journey Home
With the Lions’ tour concluded, the players dispersed—some heading home, others taking the opportunity to explore Australia or travel further. But for Aki, no destination could compare to where he was going next: home to finally meet his newborn daughter for the first time.
I want to enjoy my break, my family time, he said. I haven’t seen my family for eight weeks. I have a newborn child I haven’t met yet.
The emotional weight of that reunion will undoubtedly surpass even the greatest rugby triumphs of his career.
A Story of Resilience and Love
Bundee Aki’s tale is more than just a remarkable anecdote from a Lions tour—it’s a testament to family, resilience, and the unpredictable beauty of life. While his heroics on the field thrilled rugby fans, it’s the personal moments like these that remind us of the real-life challenges and joys behind the athletes we admire.
Kayla’s strength, Aine’s dramatic entrance into the world, and the Lions’ subsequent success made for a story that will be remembered long after the final whistle. And now, as Bundee finally holds his daughter for the first time, the real celebration begins.
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