Red Socks celebrate legendary leadership

Red Socks Day: Have you got yours?

New Zealanders are being encouraged to wear the humble, but symbolic, 'socks of a leader' on Friday, July 8, in support of the Sir Peter Blake Trust's annual Red Socks Day.

The Trust continues to honour the legendary leadership skills of the late Sir Peter Blake, demonstrated in his many yachting and environmental projects, and is asking New Zealanders to buy replicas of his 'lucky' red socks. Buy yours today.

Trust Chief Executive Shelley Campbell says Red Socks Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of leadership and is the culmination of the Trust's Leadership Week.

"We are expecting an amazing response to Red Socks Day from Kiwis all over the country in schools, businesses and other organisations. People remember the national pride Sir Peter helped create with his yachting success, his inspirational leadership, and his famous red socks.

"Taking part in Red Socks Day is a way all of us can be part of a team and it makes us think about what leadership really means."

Sir Peter Blake Trust red socks can be purchased through the Trust website www.redsocksday.org. Red Socks are now available for order in three sizes: adult, child and the brand new toddler's red socks. Any proceeds will fund the Trust's ongoing work in promoting leadership.

The legend of the red socks
Pippa Blake liked to give her husband a pair of lucky socks when he was racing. During the America's Cup of 1995 these socks happened to be red. Every time Peter wore his red socks, the black boat was victorious. As long as the boat was winning, Peter decided not to take the socks off. The only day Blake and his socks missed a race, the boat lost. From there, Red Socks became a national symbol of support for Team New Zealand through the 2000 and 2003 America's Cup races. Sir Peter Blake Trust has revived the Red Socks and launched Red Socks Day in memory of Sir Peter, and to celebrate great Kiwi leaders and leadership.

About Sir Peter Blake Trust
The Sir Peter Blake Trust was established to showcase Sir Peter's visionary leadership and to inspire these qualities in all New Zealanders.