Northland celebrates Blair Tuke - Rio gold medalist

Peter Burling and Blair Tuke after winning their race during the 49er class sailing race the 2016 Rio Olympics on Tuesday the 16th of August 2016. © Copyright Photo by Marty Melville / www.Photos

My one and only up-close encounter with Blair Tuke was in a car-park.

He was partially clothed. I'll be honest, he's a handsome man, and my wife stole a look at what the heck he was doing. So did I.

He was getting changed next to a car, something he's probably done hundreds of times in waterfront car-parks around the world.

Except this wasn't on a waterfront, Tuke was about to enter the Northland sports awards where later that evening, he would be handed the supreme award.

Tuke's gold medal performance this week probably means he should organise someone to collect that supreme award. Again.

Because chances are Tuke - who also happens to be a qualified electrician - may be too busy to collect the award.

This gold is going to open more doors that will secure Tuke's long term career as a professional sailor.

And keep that electrician's belt in the cupboard for some time.

There is Team New Zealand of course, with fellow 49er gold medallist Peter Burling.

Burling has strong Northland ties. Parents from Whangarei. Grand-parents in Kerikeri.

Derry Godbert, a Kerikeri High School Sailing Programme coach, reckons there is a "certain magic" to the Tuke/Burling partnership.

Perhaps the Northland factor is it.

It is a minor matter that Burling was born in Tauranga after his parents left Whangarei, he is for all regional tie intents and sporting purposes, a Northlander.

Normally planning a victory parade before the victory is officially consummated would be considered the height of arrogance. Unlucky even.

But when you have reached the heights that Tuke and Burling have attained, you know you're a winner with two races to go.

That's class. And it makes the parade organisers' job a lot easier.

Except last time, the parade celebrated silver. This time, it's gold.

Not bad for a sparkie from Kerikeri.