By ELIZABETH BINNING
"Don Clarke, champion All Black - ageless and timeless - we salute you."
The accolades rang out yesterday during a moving service paying tribute to the rugby great who died of cancer two weeks ago in South Africa.
The 69-year-old had moved there with his wife and three children in 1977 after an outstanding rugby career in New Zealand.
Yesterday, at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton, around 1000 fans, friends and family members said their last goodbyes to a man who inspired generations of rugby players. He had helped officially open the venue in 2001.
The 90-minute service started with a prayer, then a rendition of This Man Is Ours by Sir Howard Morrison.
Scattered among the crowd were dozens of rugby players, ranging from former All Blacks such as Grant Fox through to those who played for Waikato with Clarke in the 1950s.
Children, too young to have heard of Clarke, accompanied parents and grandparents who spoke fondly of the times they watched "The Boot" work his magic on the field.
He played 89 matches for the All Blacks, including 31 tests, during the 1950s and 1960s.
In that time he scored 781 points, eight tries, 173 conversions and 120 penalties, earning a place as one of New Zealand's greatest rugby players.
Yesterday his achievements were remembered in eulogies from colleagues including Colin Meads and New Zealand Rugby Union chairman Jock Hobbs.
Guest speakers recalled many great Clarke moments and paid special homage to his wife, Patsy, who supported and encouraged him throughout his career.
Mrs Clarke sat in the front row of the stands, flanked by daughters Leigh and Shelley and surrounded by dozens of family members. They heard close friends, colleagues and relatives share their memories.
One of Clarke's brothers, Doug, thanked the public for their support and kindness.
The All Black's son Glenn, who was unable to attend the service, spoke via a video recording taken at the funeral in South Africa. He recalled fond memories of his "inspiring" yet "protective" father.
Jack Pickett, president of the Kereone Rugby Club where Clarke started his career, described the close relationship the club enjoyed with the Waikato's most famous All Black.
"Not only did Don play for us for 12 years, he also coached for two and was involved with things like fundraising.
"He was not only a rugby great but a great club man. We feel privileged to be part of the legend that was Don Clarke."
A smaller service is being held at the Kereone club today.
Meads, an All Black colleague and great friend, recalled many memories from tours gone by.
He also joked about how, in an era when top All Blacks are highly paid, someone such as Clarke would be too expensive.
Half-way through the service a video, featuring music and pictures of "The Boot" at his best, brought many to tears, especially family.
Sir Howard closed the service with Pokarekare Ana.
Fans then queued to sign a Book of Remembrance, which will be passed on to the Clarke family.
"He was my hero," said one of several fans wearing the red, yellow and black Waikato jersey as he signed his name in the book.
Farewell salute to an All Black legend
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