So Proud for Blair!

We were all so proud to hear that  Old Collegian, Blair Tuke, with his 49er sailing partner, Peter Burling, were selected as co-captains of the New Zealand Olympic team on the eve of the opening ceremony; the first time in New Zealand history that two athletes have been named as flag bearers. The flagbearer is chosen by the New Zealand Olympic Team Chef de Mission, taking into account a wide range of factors including past performances, ability to lead and inspire New Zealand athletes, competition preparation and performance standards. Blair and Peter’s performances to date have certainly been awe-inspiring!

How proud were we on Saturday as they led the New Zealand athletes into the Maracana Stadium in Rio!

Four time world champions, the pair are attending their second Olympics, having won a silver medal at the London Olympics in 2012.

Along with Blair, Old Collegian, Marcus Daniell and tennis doubles partner, Michael Venus, are the first Kiwi males to qualify for the Olympics since Brett Steven at Atlanta in 1996.

In addition, Old Collegian, Rick Dodson will be competing in the Paralympics as part of the Kiwi Gold Sailing team. Rick, who was the on-board strategist for Team New Zealand's successful 1995 challenge and 2000 defence of the America's Cup, took up para-sailing in 2012 after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 19 years ago.

Old Collegian, Teddy Stanaway was also named in the All Blacks Sevens team for the sport’s introduction at the Olympics but was sadly ruled out of the Olympics after sustaining an injury on the eve of the Games

We wish all New Zealand athletes, but in particular Blair, Marcus and Rick, all the very best for their competitions. We’re sure to be watching!

Read the Herald article here:
Blair Tuke and Peter Burling named as NZ Flagbearers for Rio Olympics
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11687794