Harriers honoured at national awards
Cambuslang Harriers are officially the best off-track athletics club in Scotland.
The team were awarded the prize at the Scottish Athletics Awards on November 4 for their close work with the local community including schools.
It also rewards the support given to their athletes from novices through to national standard, along with the multiteam medal successes of the club at Scottish and UK level across the different age groups.
Club president David Cooney said: “All members should be proud of the club’s award, which recognises the hard work put in by its athletes, coaches, officials, parents and supporters.”
Cambuslang Harriers were represented by lead coach Mike Johnston, club captain Iain Reid and athlete Justin Carter, who were delighted to accept the off-track club of the year award.
Paul Thompson had also been nominated for the master athlete of the year award, having won the World Masters Half Marathon M60 gold and two silver medals in the cross country and 3k track events held in Daegu, South Korea.
Although Paul did not win his category, he felt honoured to have been nominated.
Each year the Tom Stillie Award is made on the night to reward an individual who is seen to have contributed most to Scottish Athletics in the past year.
And this year Cambuslang’s Mike Johnston was the popular recipient.
Mike has been involved in coaching at the club since the late 1980s and was the Scottish endurance coach from 2004 to 2014. He was involved in three Commonwealth Games. During that time and since he has coached and menteroed athletes to national and international level.
David added: “The unassuming Mike was visibly taken aback when the announcement was made and found it initially difficult to take in.
“Naturally he is delighted to have had this honour bestowed upon him in recognition of his continued valuable contribution to Scottish Athletics and its athletes.”