VIC COLLINS R.I.P.
The Club is sad to report of the death at age of 80 of former member Vic Collins, with the following tribute prepared by Dave Ainsworth on behalf of the local race-walking community.
So very sad to say that genial and popular tall long striding Vic Collins has died. He was a member of Woodford Green AC who made appearances for British Police Representative teams in the Ryan Cup (then over 10 miles). In his Club colours he was our 1979 Essex County AA 50 Kilometres' Walk Champion, clocking 5:21.40 around an infamous Basildon 5 circuits' course - on a baking hot day when a number of "big names" failed to finish. Vic defied heat and pressed on for victory. After his City-of-London Police service he worked on Security at Buckingham Palace. His 2 always enthusiastic sons, Neill and Tony, are well known as successful athletes - and Vic gave them full support. Vic was both Manager and Coach of the National Athletics Team for those with Leaning Difficulties and devoted much time to this aspect of sport. One year Vic compketed a 33 Miles' Police Barking-to-Southend Walk then sped back to Romford Market Place to compete in the mid-afternoon "Romford Brewery 3,000 Metres Walk" (5 times around a Market Place including stretches of cobbles with free beer for all competitors/officials/helpers). Romford-based Stuart Bennett did the same - the organiser (Hon.Ed) and Referee (also Hon.Ed) permitted them to compete in their morning vests with Barking/.Southend numbers on - something else for the commentator (Hon.Ed.again) to rattle on about. Vic was one of 2 City-of-London Police Officers who made good in our race walking world, the other being fellow Woodford Green AC member Centurion 581 Ken Turner R.I.P. Vic resided in Rainham (Essex). He was a lovely man, highly popular and will be missed. Condolence is expressed to his now widow Kathy, sons Neill and Tony and all other relations and friends.
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