Norman’s delighted by award

Norman’s delighted by award

3 January 2018

A COMBER man who has introduced thousands of people to the joys of running has been included on the New Year’s Honours list for his services to the sport and his local community.

Norman Mawhinney, who will celebrate his 60th birthday this month, is delighted with news he will be awarded a British Empire Medal at Hillsborough Castle in September.

A relative latecomer to running, which he took up when he was 52, Norman enjoyed his new-found fitness, shedding more than four stone as he became more competitive.

Because of the improvements to his own lifestyle, he was keen to introduce others to the pleasure of running and has since introduced thousands to running through the creation of many couch to 5k programmes, including a popular scheme in Portaferry.

He was also behind the establishment of running clubs across the area, including the Saintfield Striders and Ballydrain Harriers clubs where he coaches.

Having achieved gold and silver medals in the over 55 category of the Dublin Marathon, Norman has also won the over 55 half marathon series in Northern Ireland.

He is also an active members of Comber Rec Football Club where he holds the post of treasurer.

“I have benefited from running in many ways and because I see those benefits I am happy to bring them to other people,” he said.

“It is very very nice to get this recognition and there are a lot of people who support me and who have really inspired me to keep going particularly in the running community. That forces you on and makes you want to do more.

“I am thrilled to be chosen for the British Empire Medal.”