Gorde Hunter (2004)

Gorde Hunter covered numerous issues of the day during his stint at the Victoria Colonist and the Times Colonist, but sports remained his first love. This versatile radio broadcaster and print media talent was involved in the Canadian sports scene for nearly 20 years by the time he made his way to Victoria in the mid 1960's. He came to be well known to many in Greater Victoria and beyond through his dual role as newspaper columnist and sports director at CJVI radio. He was also the broadcast voice of local hockey and fastball games. "One Man's Opinion," as he called his print column and his radio-show sign off, was a voice of controversy mixed with experience and knowledge. An avid golfer, who once had visions of performing on the professional tour, Hunter found the mild weather and abundant facilities perfect on Vancouver Island to continue his passion for the sport. Another aspect of his work that made him beloved in Greater Victoria was his trademark Christmas cards that appeared each year in the daily newspaper. He graphically arranged the names of various sports personalities and newsmakers to illustrate a Christmas scene, showing his talent for artwork as well as a nose for the news. His dedication to the Victoria sports scene was legendary and he was a founder of the Victoria Sports Celebrity Dinner awards.