22 July 2019

Staff and colleagues at British Athletics are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Janice Eaglesham MBE.

Janice’s dedication to disability sports has spanned decades. Her introduction came in 1977 as a guide runner to a visually-impaired athlete, and she was later a volunteer at the Special Olympics. Then, in 1990, she and husband Ian Mirfin founded Red Star AC to provide opportunities for athletes with disabilities.

Janice coached countless athletes at the club, from grassroots to international levels. In recent years she was particularly involved with RaceRunning, providing leadership for the development of the sport as a whole, as well as coaching and mentorship for the young athletes involved. In 2018, she acted as Team Coach for the RaceRunners as they competed in the WPA European Championships for the first time.

In 2016, she and Ian both received MBEs for services to disability sport. They were recognised as Unsung Heroes by the BBC at the Sports Personality of the Year Awards in 2011. They carried the Olympic/Paralympic Torch in 2012 and received countless other accolades.

Interim Chief Executive of British Athletics, Nigel Holl, said:

“All at British Athletics are incredibly saddened by this news. Janice’s partnership with Ian is one that has changed countless lives through sport. She has made an incredible impact on disability sport across Scotland and the UK and was a truly inspirational person. Our thoughts are with Ian and Janice’s family and friends.”

Para Athletics Head Coach, Paula Dunn, added:

“Janice will be sadly missed by many. She will not only be missed for her significant contribution to the sport but also in the manner she did it & the many people she impacted along the way. I send my deepest condolences to Ian, and Janice’s family and friends at this time.”