David Handley

Dave Handley and Steve Heffernan in a very tight sprint finish

Dave’s partner, Pat has asked me to let you all know that Dave passed away peacefully this morning after a long illness.

Dave was a gifted sprinter and motivator. His proudest moment was as the last British sprinter to reach the world championship podium, before the modern era. That was his bronze medal in the world amateur sprint championships of 1960.

As a motivator and organiser he led the Polytechnic CC dominance of national team pursuiting in the 1960’s which was considered a radical approach at that time by basing his team on sprinters on the basis they all had the necessary speed. He was also proud to be team manager of the track team at world championships.

At this time, funeral arrangements are yet to be made but Pat will be advising in due course. Of course we all commiserate with Pat and Dave’s family at this time.

Seán Bannister