Earlier this year, Gateshead Harrier Johnny Trainor passed away. Johnny was a talented athlete coached by Stan Long and in the early 1960’s won the North of England Cross Country Championship in the 14-16 year old Boys Age Group. The first Gateshead Harrier ever to win a Northern Title.
Whilst sorting out his things, an old trophy was discovered and passed back to the club. The trophy is from when the club was called Gateshead St. Marys Harriers and is called the Belle Vue Ch…allenge Cup from 1921. This was a 4 Mile Race for Seniors that the club used to run from Prince Consort Road, Bensham Bank, Saltwell Road, Bell Vue Bank, Old Durham Road and back down Prince Consort Road .
As Johnny was the last (we think) person to have won this trophy, we have renamed it in his memory as The Johnny Trainor Cup. The cup will be given for a specific performance and will be awarded at this year’s Presentation Evening (21st November).
2 Comments
walt chadwick
19/11/2015
In the 80s I was working in England for NIKE and met John and many of his Gateshead team mates. Very fond memories for me of people whom I respect and enjoy their company. I also ran the Jack Russell race in South Shields in 1983 and John ran too. All the way through the race I kept hearing “Go John”, Go Johnny”. He was a great competitor and person.
It saddens me to know John is gone. My sadness goes with all of you who loved John. I will remember him during the miles I have left to run.
Janice Kaufman
29/11/2015
Thank you for your comments and memories. If you are ever passing on a Tuesday or Thursday evening pop into the stadium and say hello
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