In 1970 The Commonwealth 10,000m champion’s legacy has been enhanced by a fitting tribute.
His unforgettable performance to win 10,000m gold in 1970 made him a national hero in Scotland and now Lachie Stewart’s legacy has been further extended after a new track in Dumbarton was renamed in his honour.
The Olympian was born in nearby Alexandria, close to Loch Lomond, and lived in the area for most of his life until he died in May aged 81 after a short illness. After retiring from the sport, he remained a strong advocate for it and could often be found at local road races and events, chatting with competitors and handing out awards.
The closest track to his home was to be at Dumbarton’s Post Park, a site which has been refurbished and saw the brand new track officially open for business earlier this year.
Following a motion by councilor David McBride, it has now been named in honor of Stewart and members of his family, and officials from West Dunbartonshire Council, West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust and Scottish Athletics gathered earlier this week to unveil the sign and mark the milestone.
“Lachie Stewart was a proud son of West Dunbartonshire and one of Scotland’s most celebrated sportsmen,” McBride said. “He made a lasting contribution to Scottish athletics, not only through his remarkable achievements in competition, but also through his continued advocacy for the sport after his retirement. Renaming our running facility after him allows us to recognize both his extraordinary athletic achievements and his lifelong connection to our community.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, Lachie’s son Glenn said: “We are all delighted that the park has been named after my father, Lachie, who was so passionate about athletics and wanted to inspire the next generation.
“Thanks to West Dunbartonshire Council for making this happen and to local athletics advocate Maurice Donohue for the proposal that came forward. It’s a real honor and alongside his Commonwealth Games win and his experience. The Olympics will give us another incredible memory of him.”
Stewart is best known for his inspirational victory on the first day of the Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh 55 years ago, where he edged Australian Ron Clarke, the multiple world record holder in the 100m, to a time of 28:11.72.
Stewart represented Scotland in three Commonwealth Games and also represented Great Britain at the 1972 Munich Olympics. Running for Vale of Leven AC and Shettleston Harriers, he won 13 Scottish track titles and won the Scottish cross country title twice. His first Scottish records came over 3000m and he set 18 Scottish records between 1966 and 1971, from the steeplechase to the one hour race.
