Masters pioneers salute Ian Hume’s legacy and memory

Bob Fine of Florida wrote the original WAVA Constitution and was part of that small Toronto group in 1975 that launched masters track’s world governing body. Cesare Beccalli of Italy also was at Toronto and later became the president of WAVA (now WMA) twice. Both have responded to my invitations to reflect on the passing of Canada’s Ian Hume, who helped found WAVA.


Here’s what Bob wrote:
“Many outstanding athletes just take from thhe sport and give nothing in return. Ian was an important contributor when the masters’ program was getting started. If there ever will be an International Masters Hall of Fame, Ian should be among the first inductees.”
Here’s what Cesare sent:
“I was the only Italian competitor in Toronto 75 . From there started a long personal story and the foundation of the Italian Masters movement (IMITT) as well as that of the EVAA. Because of that, I became WAVA president in 1987 and I have been elected WMA President in San Sebastian 2005.
“Therefore I always felt and still feel a great debt of gratitude towards those who were founders and/or Masters’ pioneers. I did not have the occasion to hold very close personal relationships with Ian Hume like I had with others, for example Don Farquharson and Bob Fine, but I knew this gentlemen and I was aware of the important role he had in starting the movement and of his absolutely top-level athletic performances.
“Simply a glory whom we’ll never forget. Let me say that I would like to avoid to use the sad word ‘condolences’ while I find much better to say ‘honour for ever to his memory.’ ”

Related posts:

  1. Landover’s legacy: World and American records lost forever?
  2. Cesare Beccalli’s legacy: making WMA safe for elitism
  3. Willie Venable’s legacy: organs as precious gifts

March 30, 2006