Honour for Gordy Brew

The man behind Western Athletics Club Gordy Brew has been hononoured by England Athletics for services to the sport.

The award was due to presented at a ceremony in the North West of England earlier this week but Gordy was unable to travel.

Chairman of the Isle of Man Athletics Association David Pryke surprised Gordy with the news after the recent Western event in Peel.

The press release from the association reads:

"Gordy was a founding member of WAC some 33 years ago, taking on the role of Chairman, which he still holds.

Under his guidance the club has grown with its athletes having competed at all levels up to Commonwealth Games.

Gordy has been involved not only as Chairman of WAC, but as an official, a coach, a social organiser, event organiser and more.

When organising events, or marking out a cross-country course, Gordy is always the first to arrive and the last to leave.

He has been instrumental in the organisation of sportshall athletics, an initiative that is introducing a new generation of young athletes to the sport.

As a starter, wearing the bright red starter's blazer and cap, Gordy has been a truly distinctive figure, officiating at schools athletics events, summer track leagues, northern league matches and youth commonwealth games.

With an eye to the future, he is currently training 6 new starters from all over the island to follow in his footsteps.

He is a true servant of the sport who fully deserves this recognition of his devotion to the development, delivery and enjoyment of athletics."