George Williamson 1944-2004

THE athletics world is sadly marking the passing of George Williamson who was the chairman and chief track coach of the Andover Athletic Club.

He died unexpectedly on Friday December 3 and will be a sad loss not only to the local athletic talent, but also to athletics in general.

George moved to Andover in the early '70s from London. His initial involvement with the sport was to accompany his daughter, Jenny, to the Athletic Club, but it wasn't long before he took up running himself.

This led to coaching and committee work, but in recent years he got back into his road running again, and although he was the first to admit that he was not the fastest or most stylish runner, it did not stop him training and completing a number of races with his youngest daughter, Rebecca.

He was known by many as an inspirational coach at the local club, but was also a recognised figure at county events, where he officiated in a number of capacities.

One of George's passions was his involvement in the organisation and officiating of the National Disabled Sports Championships in Cardiff, but he was equally at home in the less rarified atmosphere of the local primary schools, where he inspired many a youngster to take up athletics.

His involvement extended to national competition level, and his young protegees will testify not only to his love of the sport, but his total support for their ambition and wellbeing.

His current crop of talented young sprinters are a perfect testament of his 100 per cent devotion to his role as coach and those that compete at national level are proof of his tremendous ability to bring out the best of their talent.

George was awarded a Test Valley Borough Council Community Champion Award three years ago in recognition of his long service and dedication to the sport and the community, but it was so fitting for such a well-respected man, that in 2004, he won the athletes' vote as Andover Club Athlete of the Year.

He will be so sadly missed by all his fellow club members and we share this loss with his wife, Margaret, and his three daughters.

Kevin Green