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Interview: William Blick speaks out on his late father Paddy
UOC President William Blick
What you need to know:
Ahead of today’s memorial event for motorsport legend Paddy Blick, his son William tells Monitor Sports Editor Mark Namanya why they have organised the function.
Who was Paddy Blick?
My dad was a sportsman and a sports administrator.
What did you learn from him?
He once said to me: ‘You must be the best to be noticed. Practice will bring perfection.’
Can you compare yourself to him?
People say we look alike but am told I am alot more handsome (..he chuckles). He was an excellent boxer, footballer, motobike rider, rally driver and loved golf. He won everything in motorsports.
I also played rugby and football. I ran 400m in athletics, engaged in motocross and rallying. He won a lot more accolades which makes me feel so proud. I have only the 1992 Uspa Rugby Player of the Year award and clubman rally champion 2003 prize.
He was a good sports administrator. I remember his time at UMC and FMU. He made me believe I could make a difference and I hope I can do so one day. As of sports administration however, I think I have an upper hand!
Did he groom you into a sportsman?
No, not at all. Both Arthur and myself learnt the hard way. I feel bad that I wasn’t groomed at an early age. If I was, I would have been a professional sportsman and so would Arthur. I really feel we didn’t have that opportunity. Both myself and Arthur have groomed our kids into sports at a national level at a very early age. I know it will pay dividends one day because our kids have unique potential. My son William at 3 years can ride a bike and hit the jumps, so watch this space!
What does the memorial mean to you and why in such a fashion?
My dad was a sportsman and so am I and my kids. I couldn’t think of a better way to remember him or myself or Arthur Sr and Jr.
What next for the Blicks?
The family conveyor belt of motocross will hopefully see Alestair, William Jr and Jayden emerge as continental MX champions.
