The family of athletics In Wales are saddened to hear the news of Mary’s passing after a long illness bravely borne. We wish to offer our most sincere condolences to Sally, David and family.
Mary came into athletics supporting her husband John who was a sprinter. Both of Mary’s children were athletes and Mary attended many grass roots meetings encouraging them in their chosen events.
Following the death of her husband Mary returned to athletics and trained as an official. Mary was one of the first women starters and marksman in Wales. She later qualified as both a track and field judge in the 1980s.
Mary officiated at both Valley and Gwent cross country leagues. She was an important member of Gwent AAA where she undertook the role of Championships secretary for many years. She represented East Wales at the General Council in 2010.
Mary was a life member of Cwmbran Harriers. Shewas Treasurer of Torfaen AC which became Cwmbran Harriers where she continued in this role and also became membership secretary of Cwmbran Harriers. She represented her club at Welsh Athletics AGMs and would always uphold the views of the club and area.
As Coordinator and Treasurer of the South East Wales Track and Field League Mary made a significant contribution to the development of grass roots athletics in Wales.
Mary also served Welsh Athletics as both a track and a field technical official. She served as a Field Official at the Welsh Championships at Cwmbran in 1994, a Field Official at the Welsh Games in 2002 and a Field Official at the Wales v England v Ireland v an International Select Indoor International in 2003.
Mary was appointed part of the Welsh Athletics management team at the Celtic Games held at Mary Peter’s Stadium, Belfast.
In 2001 Mary was presented the Welsh Athletics Meritorious Award, followed by the Award of Honour in 2013.
Outside of athletics Mary was a FE Lecturer, in dressmaking, at Pontypool College. She could frequently be seen behind the wheel of the Mayoral car as she was a part time chauffeur for the borough.
Another of Mary’s passions was her caravan. She travelled across Wales, even transporting athlete’s poles to the Welsh Championships in Wrexham.
Mary will be remembered as a champion of grass roots athletics. She loved our sport and was greatly respected by her friends, colleagues, and athletes alike.
Joyce Tomala, Life Member Cwmbran Harriers
Lynette Harries, Honorary President Welsh Athletics
Mary made the decision for a pure cremation, with no funeral or service. The family have said that if anyone wishes to make a donation in Mary’s memory, please support Parkinson’s Disease research.
