Wellington Scottish life member, Athletics Wellington life member

Peter passed away in Masterton on 20 May, aged 95 — our oldest competitive member.

Peter and his wife Sheila, after migrating from the UK, resided in Masterton where they joined the Masterton Harrier Club. Moving to Wellington in the 1960s where they became resident Custodians/Manager of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce headquarters (where NZAAA/AthNZ held their AGMs). They joined Scottish Harriers, in particular the very active veterans group led by Clem Green, briefly as runners, but then as enthusiastic race walkers.

In his quiet, unassuming way, Peter became involved in many administrative aspects of both Scottish and the Wellington Centre. He was the resident Delegate for Masterton attending Centre meetings for many years. But he took on the role for both Scottish and Centre in looking after and setting up the start and finish area for our cross-country and road races — especially the pens for the funnel finish system used then.

They both travelled regularly with our members to veterans events and also donated the Tearle Trophy, still competed for by the walkers. During the summer at Newtown Park he and Murray Gowans for many seasons ran the pole vault — one of the most demanding events to officiate. Their expertise was recognised by appointment at the Commonwealth Games in Auckland in 1990. He was made a Scottish Life member in 1991. After moving back to Masterton, Peter retained his association with us and travelled over the hill most Saturdays to compete and especially set up harrier and pole vault requirements. Sadly, Sheila passed away in 2012.

Peter became even more active in veterans competitions, initially in walks, then “graduated” to field events which enabled him to participate into his early 90s!! Often with Murray Gowans and Johnny Hines they toured to these events. For his outstanding contribution both summer and winter, he was rewarded with an Athletics Wellington Life Membership.

Farewell Peter.

Alan Stevens
Patron, Wellington Scottish Athletics Club