Final recipients of Eric Liddell Recognition Awards announced

Saturday 26th October 2024

Eric Liddell (photo via Eric Liddell 100)

First recipients Eric Liddell Recognition awards

Following a nomination process, we are delighted to announce the final ten recipients of our 2024 Eric Liddell Recognition Awards.

The awards form part of the Eric Liddell 100 programme of events and activities to recognise and celebrate the life, sporting and community service achievements of one of Scotland’s iconic figures.

Celebrating some of the outstanding individuals that contribute to athletics in Scotland, scottishathletics have awarded 20 Eric Liddell Recognition Awards’ this year, with the first 10 recipients announced in August.

The criteria for the recognition awards were aligned to the values of the Eric Liddell 100 programme.

Passion – enthusiasm, dedication, optimism, self-belief
Compassion – humility, selflessness, respect, care, community-minded
Integrity – discretion, loyalty, self-sacrifice, principled

Award winners will be presented with a unique Eric Liddell 100 pin badge and signed Scotland Joma vest, to be presented at a later date.

scottishathletics CEO, Colin Hutchison, said:

‘It has been incredibly special to honour the legacy of Eric Liddell this year through our Eric Liddell Recognition Awards,

‘Our sport is full of incredible people who uphold the values of passion, compassion and integrity, and it has been a privilege to be able to recognise some of them on this special anniversary,

‘Congratulations to all the winners.’

Colin Hutchison (photo by Jamie Simpson)

The final 10 award recipients are named below.

Eric Liddell Recognition Award Recipients

Gavin Bain
Runner & Volunteer Jog Leader, On The Run Cumbernauld

After suffering a cardiac incident during a group run, Gavin was keen to get back running as soon as he was able. He says jogscotland saved his life twice, first during his incident, and again when he rejoined the group. Gavin has been an inspiration to many new members and is an example of overcoming serious issues with the right guidance and support. Unfortunately in the last few months Gavin’s health has taken another blow, but despite this, he continues to support and encourages others and promote the benefits of running.

Luke Davidson
Athlete, Inverness Harriers

Luke showcased not only his athletic prowess but also his deep-rooted Christian faith as he secured the Scottish Senior 800m title. Discreet and loyal, Luke stays true to his values, even in the high-pressure world of competitive sport. He exhibits a strong sense of self-sacrifice, placing his faith and principles above all else, just as Liddell did when he famously chose to forgo a race on a Sunday.

Kirsty Gray
Chairperson & Run Leader, Lothian Running Club

Kirsty is endlessly passionate about her club and works tirelessly to show it in the best light. Her passion extends from the junior section right through to engaging with former athletes for input into celebrations for the club’s 25th anniversary. She regularly runs races and is dedicated to her training plans, as well as supporting others at races even when she’s not taking part.

Stuart Irvine
Volunteer, Club Secretary & Trustee, Garscube Harriers

Stuart has volunteered for 37 years as Treasurer and Secretary, ensuring the smooth running of the club. In 2024, he was integral to helping increase cross country participation, with the club going on to win the Lindsays Trophy. An unsung hero who has never yet won an award, Stuart has worked quietly and efficiently behind the scenes for his love of volunteering for the good of Scottish Athletics.

Inga Linklater
Club Manager & Welfare Officer, Orkney Athletic and Running Club

Inga’s dedication to her club is unmatched, going above and beyond to make sure everything runs smoothly. As an island club, travel to competitions on the mainland is hugely important to our athletes’ development, but difficult to organise and expensive. Inga has played a crucial role in improving access to these opportunities as a volunteer on club trips, including driving a minibus, arranging travel and accommodation, and seeking sponsorship to minimise the cost to athletes.

Margaret-Ann MacLachlan
Track & Endurance Official, Kilbarchan AAC

Margaret-Ann took up officiating to ‘pass the time’ while she attended athletics events across the country in support of her daughter and then her son. Over 30 years later she is a highly respected Level 4 Official and has officiated at Scottish, UK, European, Commonwealth, World and Olympic Championships. She officiates all year round at outdoor and indoor track meetings as well as road, cross country, schools and disability events, and leads the work on mentoring of track officials as they progress.

Brian Nisbet
Field Official / Club Membership & Welfare, Edinburgh Athletic Club / Transport & Hotel Organiser, Glasgow Jaguars

Brian ensures Edinburgh AC membership is up to date and new members are supported to join. He also helps Meadowbank staff with their facility enquiries, attending meetings to ensure they have an understanding of the club’s requirements. A loyal Official, Brian attends league matches to gain valuable points for the club and encourage newer officials. He also supports the Glasgow Jaguars team with transport and accommodation for all matches, a huge commitment in terms of time and organisation.

Heather Pollock
Coach, Disability Sport Fife

Heather is a young coach from a military family who dedicates her time to supporting children and young adults to improve their athletic goals. Her enthusiasm for her role shines through, building great relationships with the members. She has bags of patience and meets the groups individual needs. She recently raised funds for the club by taking part in the Great North Run for the first time.

John & Anne Scott
Coaches, Edinburgh Athletic Club

John and Anne are a dynamic duo, embodying the spirit of dedication and selflessness in athletics. The husband and wife have spent decades coaching, inspiring, and mentoring athletes of all levels. Their holistic approach understands that success is not just about physical prowess but also mental strength, discipline, and character development. John and Anne’s unwavering support and encouragement has helped countless athletes achieve their goals, often surpassing their own expectations.

Clare Stevenson
Coach & Committee Member, Giffnock North A.C.

Claire has worked tirelessly to create training opportunities for young athletes, including a number of training camps. This includes organising the coaches to allow these to happen, many of whom are the older youth athletes starting out on their coaching journey. She is passionate about organising new athlete intake and ensuring that young potential athletes have a pathway, with a current waiting list of around 150 children.