Thank You Gerry Carson
04 October 2024
After four years as President of Athletics Northern Ireland, Gerry Carson will conclude his term at the Athletics NI AGM on Thursday 24th October.
Gerry has been a constant presence at Championship events across Northern Ireland and Ulster, attending competitions all over the country. He has been involved in everything from track and field meets, cross-country races, road races, and ultra running events. Over the years, he has met with Lord Mayors, Mayors and Councillors. Presented numerous awards while fulfilling is duties, as well as addressing distinguished guests while delivering speeches at prize giving ceremonies.
Notably, Gerry is the first ANI President to sit on the ANI Board and serves on the Track and Field Committee. He is also the Chairman and sprint coach at Lagan Valley AC, as well as the President of Victoria Park and Connswater AC.
Having been involved in athletics for 66 years, Gerry’s competitive career includes nine Northern Ireland and Ulster senior sprint Championships, and he has set or matched records in the 100 yards, 220 yards and 400 meters. In 1965 was a member of the Great Britain and Northern Ireland relay squad. In 1969 he was part of Northern Ireland’s record breaking 4x400m relay team along with Don Bride, Davie Bennett and Trevor Alderdice. In 1970, he represented Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, reaching the 4x100m relay final along with Mike Bull, Joe Chivers and John Kilpatrick.
Gerry's enduring passion for athletics is evident in his Masters' age group achievements, holding Northern Ireland record performances for the M40 100m, M55 100m and M75 200m. He is also the current M80 NI and Ulster champion in both the 100m and Discus.
As a coach, Gerry broke new ground as the first person from Northern Ireland to pass the Senior Sprints and Relays Coach BAAB exams. He has coached multiple Northern Ireland teams, served on coaching and track and field committees and continues to mentor Lagan Valley AC’s top sprinters.
The athletics community in Northern Ireland extends its deep gratitude to Gerry Carson for his unwavering dedication and service as ANI president over the past four years.