A Laois man has been awarded Athletics Leinster’s Outstanding Service Award for his work in the sport for the best part of the last 40 years.
Vicarstown native John Scully, who is known far and wide for his love of athletics, was commended at the Leinster Indoor Championships in Athlone on Saturday.
John has been a driving force in athletics in Laois for many years and set up Oughaval AC back in 2011.
He also served at every officer position on Laois Athletics County Board, including 15 years as Chairman – a role he stood down from in 2023.
John also helped to establish the popular parkrun in Vicarstown and has been heavily involved in the SVT Community and Wellness Hub since its inception.
Taking to social media last night, John’s club Oughaval paid a glowing tribute to him.
They said: “While he has often made at the trip to the midlands venue to see Club and County athletes compete and receive their reward on the podium, it was the turn of our very own John Scully.
“John received Athletics Leinster’s Outstanding Service Award.
“With an involvement in athletics in Laois spanning nearly 40 years, John founded the club in 2011 and has been Chairman and the driving force behind it in the intervening years.
“He also served at every officer position on Laois Athletics County Board, including 15 years as Chairman, stepping down in June 2023.
“On the same day that club member Eliza McLoughlin was selected to represent Ireland in SIAB international Schools Cross Country, it can be seen that the work that John has put in over the years can reap some great results.
“However, so too – the smiling faces at training, the participation and performances at competition throughout the year, and the opening up of the sport of athletics both youngsters and indeed all ages, in our community are just some of the reasons that we are delighted to see John receive this award.
“His dedication to parkrun alone makes an incredible impact on people in this county and beyond.
“Congratulations and thanks John, from everyone at Oughaval for your ongoing and unwavering support, encouragement, organisation and hard work – this truly is the most well deserved award.”
SEE ALSO – Check out all our latest local sports coverage here
