5 Aug 2019

Rugby legend Sir Brian Lochore farewelled

From Morning Report, 7:53 am on 5 August 2019

New Zealand rugby legend Sir Brian Lochore died on Saturday, aged 78.

The Wairarapa farmer made his name as an All Black in the 1960s, taking over the captaincy in 1967 until his retirement in 1970.

He famously made a one off return in 1971 against the Lions, called in at late notice to fill an injury gap - famously leaving a note in the kitchen for his wife Pam: "Gone to Wellington, playing test tomorrow. Will ring you later."

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is among rugby figures around the world paying tribute to Sir Brian, saying in his early days as coach Sir Brian was like a second father.

His friend of more than 60 years, the former rugby referee and long time mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis, says Wairarapa people are in mourning.

Sir Brian coached the All Blacks to their win in the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987.

His assistant coaches, who both went on to coach the national side, were John Hart and Alex Wyllie.

They speak to Corin Dann.