Despite the fact that I was not enarmoured of Steve Irwin, the crocodile hunter, I do have to acknowledge his tragic death at the age of 44. In fact it was with a shock on Monday that I first read the news on the Internet that the man known as the Crocodile Hunter, who made Australians sound so ridiculous with his "crikey", was dead as a result of the barb of a sting-ray entering his heart. He did not stand a chance in the attack because the toxin of the barb is deadly.
Today, I learned, also via the Internet, the shocking news that my favourite racing car driver, Peter Brock, also known as Peter Perfect, was dead, as a result of a car crash in a rally in West Australia. Who would think that the man who believed in preaching the gospel of safe car driving would die in a car accident. It looks like he swept the bend too wide and the car went out of control on a slippery surface.
These two popular figures in Australia made an impact with people in all walks of life. Peter Brock tried to bring happiness to children, and Steve Irwin did the same. Each man made an impact in his own chosen field. They were dedicated fathers to their children, and that is just so apparent in the way that Steve Irwin was pictured with his children and wife. He showed no fear towards the animals that he cared about in his Australian zoo. He was passionate about caring for the environment and especially the animals. His legacy will live on.
Peter Brock's legacy is different because he was a racing car champion, having won the Bathurst 500 (miles) and 1000 (kms) 9 times, as well as winning other driving championships. He used the number on his car to drive home the message about .05 as the blood alcohol level. He was always very safety conscious and that is what makes his death, as the result of a car accident all the more shocking.
I am not even into motor sports, but when it comes to Peter Brock, well I used to watch in fascination, and hope that he would be the winner. Now I have learned more about the man, and how he always signed autographs for his fans, even when all other drivers had disappeared from the track. I have learned about how he encouraged our Olympic team in Athens, and about some of the larrikin things that took place in Athens (via Laurie Lawrence). I have learned so much more about this man who dedicated his life to bringing home the message on how to drive safely. Yet, his seat belt and safety helmet could not save his life.
It has been a very sad end to a week that started out in a sad way. My God keep both of these men safe in His arms, and may their families be consoled in their grief.
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