The obituary notice of George GANDY

George once said that we live on in those whom we influence during our lifetime. His legacy survives in so many of the protegés who were privileged to share his guidance, wisdom and extraordinary commitment to others.

" Ask not for whom the bell tolls,it tolls for thee"
Donne's words seem especially appropriate as George Gandy's death will diminish,in some way,everyone who knew him.
George was a very knowledgeable and charismatic athletics coach,he really was.As well as flair,he had boundless enthusiasm for his sport.
George was also a real "character" who was not afraid to be controversial.He was also an accomplished writer.I enjoyed reading his articles and letters in Athletics Weekly magazine.
"Go West Young Man" was an article that George wrote about the experiences of one of his athletes,Ian Whittle at Western Kentucky (where he had an athletics scholarship) turned out to be a scathing attack on the way in which his athlete had been ruthlessly exploited by the Western Kentucky coaches who expected him to run two or three events per meeting.
George also rallied to the defence of Loughborough Colleges (in a letter to Athletics Weekly in 1973) whose athletes had won the National Junior Cross Country title.They were criticised by another club which felt that College and University teams should be excluded from the "National".George pointed out,wryly,that the College teams were welcome to compete in the Championships - unless they won.
George Gandy was undoubtedly "a man of many parts" an athlete,a quite exceptional athletics coach,a writer,a very knowledgeable and accomplished lecturer and,above all, a very kind and caring person.He was interested in all his athletes - not just the star performers.

George gave so much to so many people in so many different ways. We will all miss you George.
Dave Miles

I cannot begin to count the endless hours George gave up for me standing at a track or in in Bradgate Park, sometimes in cold wet winter weather standing, watching, timing laps or hill reps. He gave so much of his time to others. I will forever be in your debt. Thank you George.
Steve Mitchell

George spent many hours and so much of his time, giving help, guidance and such valuable coaching to both Jamie and Graham. We will always remember him fondly and will always continue to use his advice.
RIP George, you have given to everyone and will be remembered fondly by everyone.
With much love Carole, Graham, Jamie and Matthew Williamson xx