Recognition for Ayr club man
Ayrodynamic club stalwart Lester Haining, has been recognised by triathlon’s governing body for his outstanding contribution to the sport over a period of more than 30 years.
At the AGM of Triathlon Scotland, the Ayr man received a prestigious award.
Lester, who worked for South Ayrshire Council and its predecessor Ayr Council all his life, was one of the founding members of the club 31 years ago.
The club was originally called Ayr Turtles, but changed its name a couple of years later in 1989 when the current club came into being.
Since then, Lester, ably aided and supported by his wife Joyce, has dedicated huge amounts of his time to helping develop both the club and multisport in Ayrshire.
He was no slouch as a triathlete himself, but poor health forced him to give up competition.
Lester and Joyce attend almost every training session, taking care of money, looking after athletes and providing tasty bites at the end of sessions.
The club race events are respected all over the country, and Lester is first at any venue, leaving often before dawn to set out signs on the roads, before returning to follow the competitors round the route in his van to pick up anyone who had to drop out.
Lester and Joyce have followed club athletes to events all over Scotland, and beyond, taking care of their gear.
Everyone in the club is delighted with this award for a unique and superb club servant.
Also at the AGM Lorna Todd received her award for winning the Scottish Sprint Triathlon ‘ Legends’ series, receiving her award from Commonwealth Games Triathlon Bronze medalist, Mark Austin.