28 November 2008

Those volunteers who make athletics events happen will be recognised at the UK Athletics Annual Awards Dinner supported by Heidsieck & Co Monopole Champagne with the Official of the Year  to be announced at the event on Saturday 29 November.

With Officials a key part of the athletics structure and forever giving of their free time to ensure events can take place, the category was one of the most popular in the awards process – resulting in a difficult decision for our panellists.

The shortlist for the award is:

Alex Jackson – Scotland

Alex has worked as secretary of the East District XC for more than 20 years and has also served off-track athletics with his road running and cross country event organisation. This year he took a key role in the organisation of the World Cross Country Championships that took place in Edinburgh – culminating in a highly successful weekend following months of hard work.

Stan Burton – South East

A timekeeper for almost 30 years Stan reached the pinnacle of Chief Timekeeper at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester. His love for the sport will often see him officiating at a high level grand prix at Crystal Palace one day, and officiating at an under 13 schools championships the next. He has also worked tirelessly to increase the numbers and quality of time keepers in his area.

Dean Williams – North West

Dean is an international field referee who has retained a special interest in developing field officials at grass roots level.   He has played a key role in developing the new level three education modules and is proactive as a tutor training his fellow northern officials in new areas. He has a keen interest in the health and safety aspects of officials work and delivers health and safety training to Merseyside officials.

Pat Hockley – Scotland

Pat Hockley has served the sport of athletics in numerous roles but most notably clocks up on average 90-100 events a year with her officiating skills. As well as her numerous duties within officiating she uses what spare time she has left(!) as a track tutor and assists with timetabling and various committees including Scottish Schools, Facilities and Championships.

Ken Bennett – Wales

Ken has clocked up many years experience as an official and uses his experience to benefit officials development for his club and region. Proactive in recruiting and educating new officials, he constantly encourages his new colleagues  and plays a key role in ensuring the grading system is maintained for the sport.

Gary Keenan – Northern Ireland

Described as a mainstay member of his club Albertville Harriers, he has dedicated many years to the sport as an athlete, coach and as an official. Having recently developed as a starter he uses a polite and courteous manner and carries out his duties with precision, keeping his events running  on time. The first to arrive at a meeting and the last to leave it is notable that Gary was he was nominated by other clubs, and not just his own. 

Visit www.ukathletics.net for up to date news on Saturday’s awards dinner!