Alan Bond (businessman) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alan Bond
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | 22 April 1938 Hammersmith, London, England
|
| Died | 5 June 2015 (aged 77) |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Other names | "Bondy" |
| Occupation | Businessman |
| Known for |
|
| Criminal charge(s) | Corporate fraud |
| Criminal penalty | Four years' imprisonment |
| Spouse(s) |
Eileen Hughes
(m. 1955; div. 1992)Diana Bliss
(m. 1995; died 2012) |
| Children | 4 |
Alan Bond (22 April 1938 – 5 June 2015) was a well-known Australian businessman. He became famous for his big business projects and for helping Australia win the 1983 America's Cup. This was a huge moment because it was the first time the New York Yacht Club had lost the cup in 132 years! He was also involved in some challenging business situations later in his life.
Contents
Who Was Alan Bond?
Alan Bond was born in London, England, in 1938. His family moved to Australia when he was a young boy. He grew up in Fremantle, Western Australia. From a young age, he showed a lot of energy and a keen interest in business.
Early Life and Business Ideas
Alan Bond started his first business when he was still a teenager. He was very ambitious and always looked for new opportunities. He began with small projects, like sign writing. Over time, he built a large business empire. This included many different types of companies.
Building a Business Empire
Bond's businesses grew very quickly. He invested in many areas, such as brewing beer, mining, and property. He became one of Australia's most famous business leaders. He was known for taking big risks and making bold moves.
The America's Cup Victory
One of Alan Bond's most famous achievements was his role in the 1983 America's Cup. This is a very important international yacht race.
The Challenge for the Cup
The America's Cup had been held by the United States for over a century. No other country had ever won it. Alan Bond was determined to change this. He spent a lot of money and effort to build a strong team and a special yacht.
Australia II and the Winged Keel
The Australian yacht was named Australia II. It had a secret weapon: a unique "winged keel" design. This design helped the boat go faster. The team, led by skipper John Bertrand, trained very hard.
A Historic Win
In 1983, Australia II raced against the American boat, Liberty. The races were very close and exciting. In the final race, Australia II won! This was a massive victory for Australia and a huge upset in the world of sailing. Alan Bond was celebrated as a national hero for making this dream come true.
Later Business Ventures
After the America's Cup, Alan Bond continued his business activities. He owned many different companies.
Global Business Deals
He bought and sold many large companies around the world. He was known for his big and sometimes risky business deals. His actions often made headlines in the news.
Challenges and Changes
Towards the end of the 1980s, some of Alan Bond's businesses faced difficulties. These challenges led to major changes in his business empire. He stepped back from many of his business roles.
Legacy and Impact
Alan Bond passed away in 2015. He left a lasting impact on Australian business and sport.
A Complex Figure
He is remembered as a person who achieved great things, especially with the America's Cup win. He was also a figure who faced many business challenges.
The Alan Cup
Today, there is a road hockey tournament called the Alan Cup. It is held at Bond University, which he helped to establish. This shows how he is still remembered in Australia.
Images for kids
-
The Lippo Centre in Hong Kong, which was once part of Alan Bond's business dealings.
See Also
- America's Cup
- Bond University
- WA Inc
