Robbie Deans to speak at Bob Deans auction night

Media release – June 20, 2005

Robbie Deans to speak at Bob Deans’ centenary auction night

Crusaders rugby coach Robbie Deans will be guest speaker at Riccarton House in Christchurch on Thursday night at the Bob Deans centenary auction.

The rare auction event will attract huge interest, just two days out from the first test between the Lions and the All Blacks at Jade Stadium in Christchurch.

It is 100 years since the famous Bob Deans try-that-wasn't against Wales in Cardiff in 1905, yet the debate about the Bob Deans ‘try’ continues to rage.

The disallowed try against Wales was the only loss for the 1905 "Original" All Blacks on their tour of Britain.

Deans died of appendicitis at the age of 24. Two of his All Black jerseys will be on display and other prized rugby memorabilia, including tickets to the Lions first test, will go under the hammer at Riccarton House, built the original home of the Deans family.

Bob Deans’ great-nephews, Robbie Deans, has just completed another successful Super 12 campaign.

His 2005 team broke the Super 12 record for the most tries (71). Robbie Deans has been recognised as the best coach in 10 years of Super 12 rugby. He set records by reaching five finals and scoring three titles in six years.

Proceeds from the auction will go to the Nurse Maude Association, a private health care provider which cares after elderly people.

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