Gordon Ingate, Australia’s most senior Olympian and a true legend of the sailing world, has reached a remarkable milestone: his 100th birthday. Affectionately known in sailing circles as “Wingnut,” Ingate’s journey to the Olympic stage was far from straightforward, marked by significant challenges that almost prevented him from ever competing.
Despite qualifying for the Olympic Games on three separate occasions, it was only at the 1972 Munich Games that Ingate finally had the chance to represent Australia. He was 46 years old at the time, competing in the Tempest Class alongside his crewmate Robert Thornton. The pair finished 19th in their event. While this was the lowest placing for any Australian sailor at those Games, it’s worth noting that Australia’s sailing contingent had a stellar performance overall, securing two gold medals and topping the medal table.
A particularly interesting anecdote from Ingate’s Olympic experience is that he bested the Prince of Thailand, Prinz Bhanubanda Bira, in his event. This wasn’t the only royal presence at the Munich Games; Bira was one of three royals competing. Crown Prince Harald of Norway, who would later become King Harald V, also participated, finishing 10th in the Soling Class. The then-exiled King Juan Carlos I of Spain was another royal competitor, coming 15th in the Dragon Class. Even Jacques Rogge, who would go on to lead the International Olympic Committee, was present, finishing 14th in the Finn Class.
However, Ingate’s Olympic aspirations faced significant hurdles in the lead-up to Munich. His first two Olympic qualifications, in 1948 and 1952, were tragically cut short due to his inability to secure leave from his job. At the time, Ingate worked for the company that manufactured gearboxes for the early Holden motor cars.
“I won the right to represent Australia in the London Olympics, and back then you had to get a ship so I needed up to six months off work to get to England, compete and return home,” Ingate recounted in a recent interview with the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC). His request to his Swedish boss was met with a blunt refusal. “No way, son, get back to work!” was the unsympathetic response, crushing the 22-year-old’s Olympic dreams.
Four years later, with the Games heading to Helsinki, Ingate tried again. While air travel was more accessible, his leave request was still denied. “I need a month off, sir,” Ingate recalled asking. His boss remained unmoved, replying, “No bloody way, son, get back to work!” The intervening four years had done nothing to soften the manager’s stance.
It wasn’t until his third qualification, two decades later, that Ingate was finally in a position to fulfil his lifelong Olympic ambition.
Ingate’s lifelong passion for sailing began at a young age. Born in Sydney in 1926, he developed his sea legs in the Sea Scouts at just nine years old. This early exposure ignited a love affair with the water that has endured for nearly a century. Remarkably, he continued to compete and win races well into his 90s.
His competitive record is nothing short of extraordinary. Ingate has claimed the Australian Championships Dragon Class title an impressive four times, with his most recent victory at the age of 94. This achievement makes him the oldest champion in the history of the sport.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ingate has excelled in a variety of sailing disciplines and classes. He skippered “Caprice of Huon” to a second-place finish in the prestigious 1965 Admiral’s Cup. He later sailed the same vessel to another second-place finish in the gruelling 1972 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Furthermore, he helmed the challenge for the America’s Cup aboard “Gretel II” in 1977, a testament to his exceptional skill and leadership.
A Legacy of Influence and Inspiration
The impact of Gordon Ingate on Australian sailing is widely acknowledged and deeply respected. Matt Allen, Vice President of the AOC and a fellow accomplished sailor, spoke highly of Ingate’s contributions.
“Gordon Ingate has had a huge influence in sailing over many decades and classes and is very well respected both in Australia and internationally,” Allen stated. Allen, a three-time Sydney to Hobart winner himself and former president of Sailing Australia, highlighted the breadth of Ingate’s sailing career, from the Olympic arena in Munich to numerous high-profile races and regattas.
Allen further emphasised Ingate’s inspirational qualities. “He has been an inspiration to all sailors due to his love of life, sense of humour and the fact that he was still winning races and regattas well into his 90s,” he said. Allen also recalled Ingate’s pivotal role in the inaugural Olympian’s Oath ceremony, where he delivered the powerful closing statement: “Once an Olympian always an Olympian.” Allen concluded by offering congratulations on behalf of the Olympic Movement.
Malcolm Page, Chief Executive of Australian Sailing, also paid a heartfelt tribute to the centenarian. “Gordon represents the very best of our sport,” Page commented. “His passion, curiosity and commitment to sailing have spanned a century, inspiring countless Australians along the way.”
Page underscored the significance of Ingate’s milestone. “To reach 100 years of age as Australia’s oldest living Olympian is an incredible milestone, but it is the legacy he has built, through perseverance, innovation and a lifelong love of sailing that will stand the test of time.” Gordon Ingate’s enduring spirit and remarkable achievements serve as a powerful testament to a life dedicated to the pursuit of excellence, both on and off the water.
