| A Tribute | 
|  Last updated on : 09/06/11 |
6th March 1962 - 6th June 2011
There have been many tributes paid to George over the past few days. Here are just a couple:
| As you know, George was a well respected ultra-distance runner who, in the V45 age group, appeared to be reaching a peak of performance, leading his age group in the all time lists at 40 miles, 50kms, and 12hrs. In the last year George competed at 100kms in which he was selected and represented England in 2010-11 Anglo Celtic Plate Home International team race.In this years race held in Perth, Scotland George was placed 4th position overall in the race, finishing 3rd in the UKA 100km Championship. George was looking forward to attempting a 24hr race sometime in the next few years and was a contender for selection for Great Britain for the IAU World100km Championship to be held in Holland later this year. He was a consistent performer at the marathon distance with performances always in the 2:50 region. Fellow competitors and friends in the ultra distance community will miss the way he ran with ease and grace.
Our condolence go to the family on their sad loss Norman Wilson
| Although I didn’t know George well, he made a great impression on me. In each of the Barry 40 races George has won, he has greatly impressed me. It’s not just his strength, or his mental tenacity – it’s the planning, the mindset. George is almost clinical in his execution. Other athletes fall apart, George doesn’t. I asked him why he didn’t race in the London Marathon or abroad. He said family always comes first. Each time he came to Barry it was also to visit his son in university, and each time Alex came to lap score for his Dad. I find simple values like that hugely endearing. Endurance running is a hugely time-consuming and obsessive sport, and engenders seemingly very selfish behaviour (as my long-suffering wife will readily testify). I never saw any of that in George. He was a remarkably humble man.
You may be aware that this year’s Barry 40 was a very special one for us – it was our 25th year. It seems fitting now that George’s third win in a row coincided with this landmark. I would like the trophy to remain with you – as a mark of respect for George’s remarkable achievement. Mick McGeoch
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George's achievements as a runner are too many to list - some are listed on his results website. However, for those who knew him he will be remembered not only as a runner but also "a very modest man and a great inspiration to family, friends & many runners in his planning and determination to do his best". He was an inspiration to others in the club and we know what it meant to him. It is fitting to use his own words on this page, reflecting his pleasure and surprise when nominated as our Runner of the Year in 2008.
| First there was disbelief (still is!), but having refreshed the page and looked again, I guess it must be true. What can I say? I am really moved and honoured and I still can’t figure out what I’ve done to deserve this. I know I am passionate about running (perhaps more than is considered normal), but that’s about it! Running is a fundamentally solo pursuit (at least for me), but I’ll say this again and I really mean it: Our club training days are the highlight of my week. There’s always the right level of competitiveness and fun to make them a rewarding experience, and that’s down to all the personalities involved and the runner’s spirit. Which is why I wish I could continue to be part of it for as long as I run. Thank you guys (and gals). This really means a lot to me. |
Our deepest sympathies are with Carole and the family at this time.