Father’s Day and Role Models – By Ron Persaud

Father’s Day and Role Models – By Ron Persaud

As Father’s Day approaches I was reminded of the role models in my life.

The death of Muhammad Ali marked the passing of one more of my role models – a small band of men (no sexism intended) who consciously influenced my choices and values. There was an even smaller group who did not even know that they were my role models.

At first, I did not have to look far. There was my father – always there – ever insisting that his No. 1 son must be better and better as the days go by.   

Muhammad Ali dead at 74: reaction to death of a boxing icon – live

Muhammad Ali dead at 74: reaction to death of a boxing icon – live

• Muhammad Ali dies, aged 74
• Muhammad Ali: the 20 best moments that made him The Greatest
• Live reactions from around the globe – www.theguardian.com

Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali, the three-time heavyweight champion who proclaimed himself “The Greatest”, defied the US government over the Vietnam war, and later became one of the most well-known – and loved – sportsmen in history has died. He was 74.

Ali died late on Friday at a hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, the family’s spokesperson Bob Gunnell said. His funeral will take place in his home town of Louisville, Kentucky.