|
 |
 |
|
You are in: You are in: Sports Talk |
 |
|
Thursday, 6 December, 2001, 17:59 GMT
Your tributes to Sir Peter Blake
New Zealand yachtsman Sir Peter Blake is killed by "pirates" aboard his ship Seamaster in the Brazilian Amazon.
Send your tributes to one of the most successful sailors in yachting history.
According to his agent, Blake was shot dead when intruders boarded his boat, Seamaster, on Wednesday. In 1995 he helped make Team New Zealand only the second non-American team to win the America's Cup in the trophy's 144-year history, and they won again in 2000. He was famous for his lucky red socks, wearing the same pair throughout the entire 1995 America's Cup Challenge. Knighted by the Queen in 1991, he also captured the Jules Verne trophy in 1994, before being appointed as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme in 2001. E-mail your tributes and memories of a yachting legend.
In my life of 51 years I cannot recall an occasion when New Zealander's have been so profoundly devastated at the loss of one of their countrymen. Within hours of my posting these comments the service for Sir Peter will be underway. The sorrow felt by friends and supporters has demonstrated quite vividly the impact he had on the lives of those who shared in his quests. I have been deeply moved by the thoughts expressed by people in many different countries. Be it during the Whitbread races, the America's Cup or his latest venture, Sir Peter inspired others.
My sincere hope is that his dreams of a better world will be realized through the actions of us all. It has been said that Sir Peter proved that one man can make a difference. No finer tribute could be given to him other than to show that many can make even a greater difference.
If we live by the ideals of this fine man we will do well.
As a widow of only three months the first successful Americas Cup Challenge took my mind off my grief for a while. Sir Peter Blake and his team made us so very proud. There will be many red socks worn in New Zealand today. Peter Blake will be sorely missed as a husband a father and a loved son of New Zealand. My sympathy to all of Sir Peter's family
I was shocked when I heard about Sir Peter Blake's murder on the BBC's radio news. I waited until the next bulletin to make sure I'd heard it correctly. For me as a frequent visitor to New Zealand, Sir Peter along with Sir Edmund Hillary epitomised the adventurous spirit of that beautiful country's small population. I know that all my sailing and non-sailing friends in New Zealand will miss him and mourn him whether they knew him or not. So will I.
It was with a tear in my eye, and I was shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Peter Blake. A tragic loss for sailing. Condolences to his wife Pippa and sons, and all his friends in the sailing world.
We'll miss you Peter! Legend of this age!!!!
Peter Blake is a legend, not two ways about it. In the sailing world this man has done the lot, and done it with such quiet confidence that he is a role model and inspiration to a all New Zealand and international sailors.
Thanks for the lead Pete, we will try to follow.....
A great man taken from us in the prime of his life. Our sense of loss here in New Zealand is huge, a man many looked upon as being invincible has been senselessly taken from us.
The thoughts of every New Zealander go out to Lady Pippa and the children. His mantle as the world's greatest yachtsman will remain unchallenged for many years to come.
Safe journey Sir Peter.
My daughter is called Enza. She is four and knows who Peter Blake is, and why I gave that name to her. As long as we live, Enza and Peter Blake will always be with us.
The man himself will be sadly missed but his memory will live on for many years to come. He achieved what many New Zealand sporting icons have wanted to do - to be world champions. He will be remembered not only for that but for his courage and ambition.
May he rest in peace.
As a boy, I remember the death of JFK; I remember the death of Diana; and now, I remember the death of Peter Blake.
Even though sadly gone and missed, he will still continue to inspire me.
I had the privilage of sailing with Peter and the boys aboard Condor for the '77/78 Whitbread Race and beyond. There hasn't been a day gone by since that I haven't thought about, or been asked about some aspect of the race.
Peter was the mate and took us youngsters under his wing, showed us what blue water racing was all about, lead us through some unbelievable and frightening conditions, drove the boat hard, showed us that we could achieve, made us laugh and brought us home in one piece. At 28 he was already a hero to us. Oh Peter we will miss you.
Words don't cover it, the whole of NZ owes a debt to Sir Peter, who was kind, generous and a true sportsman - maybe an icon but certainly not on a pedestal. Adored by kids because he was touchable and real. Love to Pippa, Sarah and James. Please know that all NZ is thinking of you.
My deepest sympathy goes out to the family, loved ones and friends, to a country who is in mourning, New Zealand, my prayers are with you all.
Sir Peter was an inspiration and a wonderful role model for the young people of today. The great thing about Peter Blake was that he never gave up. Sir Peter Blake was not only an outstanding yachtsman and environmentalist but also an exemplary role model of this era. He had the well being of all of humanity and the planet in his heart. The world has lost an irreplaceable legend of our times. He will be long loved and remembered.
Sir Peter Blake was not only an outstanding yachtsman and environmentalist but also an exemplary role model of this era. He had the well being of all of humanity and the planet in his heart. The world has lost an irreplaceable legend of our times. He will be long loved and remembered.
Sir Peter Blake, yachting legend was a great inspiration to everyone. His life was taken by cowards. He will always be in my heart. This has had a big effect on our country, even the world. He will always be a New Zealand icon.
I have never been more proud to be a New Zealander than when Sir Peter Blake and team New Zealand won the Americas Cup.
On this day all New Zealand was united as one as we all celebrated their tremendous achievement, and so it was with great sadness that we heard of the death of such a fine man. A man that had given so much to not only New Zealand but all around the world. God bless you Peter your beloved family and all your friends; you have truly made a difference and you will always live in the hearts and minds of all New Zealanders.
One person instigated so many wonderful events that have shaped my pride in being a New Zealander. Sir Peter Blake would have been too modest to acknowledge how his own achievements helped to shape a nation. He gave others an opportunity to shine and he always looked like he was having a whale of a time. He made a difference, and he made hard work and dedication look like fun. It was not his time to go - it doesn't seem real. My heart goes out to Pippa, Sarah-Jane and James and to his mother Joyce and family in NZ.
Sir Peter was one of sailing's great people. I was deeply shocked and saddened to hear the news of his death, he will be missed greatly. Peter wanted to make a difference and he did, he introduced many people into sailing and also showed many others the beauty of the world.
Sir Peter was a great person, champion and sailor and I hope the people who killed him will be caught and brought to justice. My thoughts go out to his family at this time of great sadness.
In response to the dreadful news of Sir Peter Blake's tragic and untimely death, the World Sports Academy would like to make the following statement: Speaking on behalf of the World Sports Academy, Chairman Edwin Moses said today: "It was an enormous privilege for us to have Sir Peter as a Founder Member of the World Sports Academy. The contribution that he and his wife Pippa made to the Laureus World Sports Awards and the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation was always enthusiastic and supportive. He was an active member of our group over the past two years and we are all devastated by this loss. His contribution will be greatly missed."
Sir Peter's fellow World Sports Academy member Sebastian Coe commented:
World Sports Academy member Daley Thompson said this morning: Peter was the hero for my time. He took over from where Sir Edmund Hillary left off. He was full of passion and the drive to succeed, he never gave up. I met him when I was 13 at a school assembly. That was before he won the Whitbread or anything else for that matter.
He never let his trophy haul cloud his direction or change the way he treated people. We have certainly lost a great man, a man larger than life, one that was head and shoulders above the rest. May we all think about what Peter stood for and take a leaf out of his book.
My generation grew up following Peter Blake's Whitbread campaigns and then to go on and win the America's cup for the country he loved so much. Words cannot describe the loss to our country, we have so much to thank him for and will be forever proud of his legend.
New Zealand is a small country and in order to fulfill thier destinies many of our sons and daughters must spread their wings and and in this case "sails" abroad. Peter did just that and now we speed him home for the last time to the shores of beloved homeland, Aotearoa/NewZealand. Hoki mai ra e Peter!
As all Kiwis, my family and I will miss Sir Peter very much. "Did you ever know you were my hero, you are the wind beneath my wings."
I sailed with Peter on Condor during the 1977-78 Whitbread round the world race and after on Condor during the American Campaign. There were three Kiwis on the boat, Peter, myself and Les Best. Robin Knox-Johnson called us the 'Three Trevs', big Trev (Peter), Middle Trev (me) and Little Trev (Les).
I will truely miss him, he was a great leader and a unbelievable role model.
Every Friday morning my daughter and I sit down and read the Washington Post to find her seventh grade current events contribution for the week. Since 11 Sept took place there have been many sad weeks. Just when we were starting to find some good news stories we have been stunned into even greater sadness. This morning she took to school her story about the "Red Socks" man, to proudly tell her American classmates that he won the Americas Cup for New Zealand. Those red socks will always shine brightly in these grey days as we ponder over the words that make us remember this great New Zealander - passion, integrity, leader, a man of honour.
We remain proud and in awe at what you delivered to us as a country. We have no doubt you will not be resting either, but sailing up there somewhere with eagles on high. Rest in peace Sir.
Our family is shocked and saddened at the senseless death of Sir Peter Blake, a most wonderful man. We pray that his family will be given much strength to get through the time ahead.
How can a man so large and full of life be dead. For anyone who has ever craned their neck to talk to Peter it is both tragic and unbelievable.
Our thoughts are with Peter's family who have worried about his safety on many occasions but could not have imagined his life would be taken in this callous way. Our only hope is that people will look at the environmental issues he was exploring and carry on the work in his memory.
Over my office is a photograph of the America's Cup yacht of Team New Zealand, which continues to inspire me. Peter Blake led that team and his untimely death is a great loss. My condolences to his family and friends, and to the people of New Zealand.
I am shocked that this can happen. One of the immediate reactions here is to rename the America's Cup compound giving it a name to remember Sir Peter Blake. I hope they will do it.
This morning on television in NZ, they are playing tributes to Sir Peter's life and it is raining. Our small nation is so deeply saddened by his un-timely death and our hearts and thoughts go out to his wife, children and family.
Sir Peter took a pair of simple red socks, and used it to inspire and unite a nation behind a sport that we'd previously passed off as rich man's game. He shall be revered and never forgotten.
I was devastated by the news of Sir Peter Blake's death. He was one of last great heroes of the modern world. A consummate gentleman, sportsman and person whose values made you proud of humankind. When your hero is murdered, it's like part of yourself dies as well. It's beyond belief; I am as shocked as I was when Princess Diana was killed. Earth and humanity have been greatly diminished by Blake's departure.
I am really, really ashamed for what happened. Brazil is big country with many social problems. We have problems with violence, now this attack on a foreigner, a passionate and kind man. It couldn't be worse. It's a big shame for Brazilian people.
A senseless act has robbed not only New Zealand but the world of a great role model, and an inspiring yet humble man. Our sympathy goes out to all Sir Peter's family.
I was shocked and feel rather devastated about Sir Peter Blake's murder yesterday on the Amazon river. He was so cool and such an inspiration. I believed in all he was trying to achieve on his expedition. There are no other Kiwis here to mention it to, noone else knows who I'm talking about - and I feel so patriotic today because we have lost such a great New Zealander. I can't believe it has happened but maybe it will make more people aware of his fight to save the environment and have a good effect in the long run.
Truly a stunning loss. Peter Blake was an inspiration in his sport and a champion of environmental causes. He will be missed.
Thank you Peter for your incredible life and your feats that made me proud with tears in my eyes. I grew up in Christchurch, New Zealand but have lived in Minnesota, U.S.A. for the last 20 years.
New Zealand is what formed me, made me the person I am, and with your tenacity and hard work you put N.Z. on the map. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You'll never be forgotten. From me and from all the Kiwis scattered throughout the world, a fond farewell, may you rest in serene peace.
We have lost a fantastic man, one who was admired by all and what a sportsman. God Bless Sir Peter and our deepest sympathy to Lady Pippa and his family. We are just so terribly sorry for your loss.
Sir Peter Blake made me feel proud to be a Kiwi. I simply cannot express just how sad i really feel over this senseless death. My sincere sympthy to Lady Pippa, Sarah-Jane and James.
Sir Peter was a real hero to us and showed us that anything was possible with a little work and determination. He brought our country together on numerous occasions and showed us the true spirit of NZ. I share his love and compassion for the environment and hope that his research and dreams will be completed. RIP Sir Peter Blake xxx
Peter's influence is a tangible force in the lives of virtually everyone lucky enough to have shared any of his adventures and endeavours. He had an unbelievable gift for assessing people and getting the best out of them, and the only responsibilities he would never delegate were those unglamorous few which trouble the human spirit in the small hours before dawn. He enriched us more by his life than many deaths could ever eradicate, but all NZ feels bereft on behalf of Pippa and the kids.
I am deeply shocked by this news. Having been brought up in New Zealand, I understand what a great national hero Sir Peter Blake was. He represented the ultimate that can be achieved by those who choose to live on the sea.
Our deepest sympathy to Lady Pippa, Sarah-Jane and James. The world has lost a wonderful environmentalist and yachting hero. We have all been deeply affected by this senseless tragedy.
I was lucky enough to sail with Sir Peter in the recent America's Cup 150th regatta at Cowes. It is hard to put into words how sad this tragedy is. He was such a nice bloke and had so much to offer to this world.
Your red socks will live on in our hearts Peter; you are a legend never to be forgotten, thanks.
I cannot believe he is gone. He symbolised everything that is NZ - he was honest, genuine, kind and passionate.
Sir Peter Blake was a hero in New Zealand not only for his sailing accolades, but also a role model for young sailors and all New Zealanders alike. Sir Peter was a great man and will be a sorely missed icon of New Zealand history. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as we all grieve the loss of this truly remarkable and loving man. Sir Peter Blake may you rest in peace.
It is with a tear in my eye I read the comments posted by people around the world saddened at the loss of one of the worlds true leaders. No matter where in the world, glasses are being raised to honour a fallen hero, husband and father who meant so much to so many.
Peter Blake is an inspiration to all New Zealanders - a good, honest Kiwi bloke who gave his all for his sport and his country. He made all Kiwis proud and helped to put NZ on the map. Sir Peter's death is a tragedy and we have lost a great national treasure and role model. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.
Sir Peter Blake was a hero and a pioneer for the ocean that he loved with all his heart, and I am saddened to hear such brutality that has been brought upon him. Rest in peace Peter, you will be remembered.
A great man, the pride of all New Zealand. So sad you're not here any more.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Having been friends with his daughter for several years, I am greatly saddened by this week's tragic event. On behalf of all of Sarah-Jane's friends, our thoughts are with her throughout this devastating time.
As a Kiwi living in London I am devastated at this tragedy. Team NZ was such an inspiration to us, and I had the best time at the Viaduct Basin when we won and was so proud to be a New Zealander. He will be sorely missed and is a true hero in the eyes of all us Kiwis living in London
My deepest sympathy goes to Pippa, a Guernsey lady, on the loss of one of the nicest men it has been my pleasure to know. Peter was a true gentleman who insisted that his Knighthood wouldn't change him, and it didn't. The world is a poorer place with his death.
Words can't describe such a remarkable individual and the loss that we feel. You are an inspiration to us all around the world. As a fellow New Zealander, I would like to say thanks for everything.
They simply don't make many men like Peter Blake. The world is a poorer place without him.
NZ doesn't have many homegrown heroes, but Peter Blake was everything a national hero should be. Fair, noble, friendly and an absolute inspiration, his loss is simply devastating for his family and for everyone whose lives he touched.
I never had the pleasure of meeting him, but his personality and impact upon yachting and the New Zealand people cannot be overstated. I hope that he is remembered for all he achieved, and missed for what may have been.
A true hero is now lost.
The great thing about Peter Blake was that he never gave up. Like thousands of others, I'll never forget the magnificent sight of the mighty red Steinlager II thundering up Southampton Water
on that June day in 1990 to take the double in the Whitbread Race after 17 years of trying. I saw him again 10 years later, simply giving a modest wave from the deck of Black Magic at Viaduct Basin, Auckland, during the 2000 America's Cup.
Ever the gentleman, Sir Peter Blake will be sadly missed by yachting fans the world over.
Today we have lost a great Totara (tree) from the great forest of Tane. Our loss is the world's loss because of the great work Peter did as an environmentalist.
Peter Blake is best remembered in Australia for his wins in the Sydney/Hobart yacht race.
A great sportsman who commanded respect wherever he competed. He will be sadly missed.
What a great loss to the world in general and to the sport of sailing in particular. I have known Peter for over 28 years and raced with him and against him many times. I am truly shocked at this new and my heart goes out to Pippa the children and their families. Goodbye old friend, I will miss you.
I was privileged to meet and briefly sail with Peter Blake during the 1989/90 Whitbread, and as anyone who engages in the mad sport of ocean racing will confirm, he was the greatest - both in terms of sailing prowess, and simply as a man. My heart goes out to Pippa and the kids.
May the wind always be at your back Peter!
Sir Peter was a true New Zealander, a loyal ambassador to the country that he loved so dearly. He will be truly missed by all.
As a Brit living New Zealand and married to a Kiwi, my first sense of pride in my new country was when
Team NZ led by Peter Blake won the America's Cup. His death is a great loss to this country and the World. A sad end to a sad year. Our thoughts are with Lady Pippa and their children.
An inspiration to everyone within, and outside of the sailing world. His enthusiasm will be missed tremendously by all. My thoughts are with his family at this tragic time.
A great ambassador, Sir Peter put the world spotlight on New Zealand. A real Kiwi legend is gone. My respects to his Family and friends.
I met Peter Blake shortly before he set off on his Amazon trip, and was struck by his commitment to the cause of the environment, and to getting his message across to a worldwide public. Despite his great sporting achievements, it seemed that this trip meant more to him than any yachting trophy. His senseless death is a real loss.
Glen Collingwood, Singapore
I am profoundly saddened both at the loss of a national hero and for his friends and family. Our nation is mourning for him.
As an Aucklander who grew up sailing and am passionate about it, I've not stopped crying since hearing the news this afternoon. It is a great loss to Peter's family, New Zealand the World and the Planet. Between terrorists and thieves' senseless acts, the world is certainly being shaken.
I met Peter at the gym we both attended in Auckland. Despite his immense personal achievements he remained very down to earth and was just a thoroughly nice guy.
His courage, ambition, determination, and work ethic were a shining example to all. A legitimate trailblazing hero, a true legend, a great New Zealander. A senseless and unquantifyable loss.
Sir Peter was an inspiration and a wonderful roll model for the young people of today. Be it in sport or any endeavour.
I am really ashamed at what happened with Sir Peter Blake. The Brazilian people apologise for what a few criminals managed to do: kill a sports legend and spoil the image of our country.
|
|
Other top Sports Talk stories:
Links to more Sports Talk stories are at the foot of the page.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 |
|
|
|
|
|
Links to more Sports Talk stories
|
|
||
 |
^^ Back to top | |
| Front Page | Football | Cricket | Rugby Union | Rugby League | Tennis | Golf | Motorsport | Boxing | Athletics | Other Sports | Sports Talk | In Depth | Photo Galleries | Audio/Video | TV & Radio | BBC Pundits | Question of Sport | Funny Old Game ------------------------------------------------------------ BBC News >> | BBC Weather >> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- © MMII | News Sources | Privacy |
||
E-mail this story to a friend