Who's your favourite number 7?

Depending on your age and sporting allegiances, you might say Keegan, Cantona, Ronaldo, McCaw, Pienaar, Raikkonen or another one of the many famous names who’ve been associated with that number over the years. I doubt many rowers would feature in the top 100!

But those who’ve spent time in the world of rowing will know that the 7 seat is widely considered to be the most difficult position in the boat to occupy. You’re the key link between the stroke and the rest of the crew, and it was Pete’s ability to fill that role, in spite of his relative inexperience as an oarsman, that stood as a testament to his talent and determination.

But that’s not why he’s my favourite number 7.

Although I only shared a year of my life with him, he left a lasting impression on me. To put it simply, his capacity for kindness, even in the most extreme of situations, knew no equal. I will forever regret not reacquainting myself with Pete before he passed, but I will never forget the genuine warmth that always lay behind that smile!