Brenda's reign ends on a high

May 17 2007 By Bill Mcguirk, The Evening Chronicle

The 2007 North Eastern Counties Track and Field Championships were not the best supported in recent years but at least those athletes who turned out gave retiring secretary Brenda Johnston plenty to smile about.

Brenda, who has been at the helm for the past 13 years, stepped down as 11 new championship records were being set in weather conditions that would normally grace a winter's cross-country meeting.

"I'm sad to be calling it a day but time catches up on all of us," said Brenda, who was on the receiving end of a presentation from championship multi-gold medallist Paul Reed.

"I've really enjoyed my time doing the job but I've been saying for a couple of years now that it's a post for a younger person.

"Hopefully, we have someone interested in the job so I can pass on any advice I can.

"I hope whoever takes over has as much pleasure as I have over the years for I've met - but not always agreed with - many athletes, parents and coaches.

"But on the whole, it's been a delight to work with everyone.

"This year we have seen entries drop once again but, while we may have been short in quantity, there is no doubting the quality that is still around here in the North East.

"In my time I've been involved with the likes of David Sharpe, Jonathan Edwards, Chris Tomlinson and Jared Deacon and they have been excellent role models.

"But we are now looking to the new generation to come through. Richard Kilty is a supreme example of what the region can look to for the future.

"He is just one of many talented youngsters that the new secretary can look forward to working with and seeing how he progresses.

"I'll miss the hustle and bustle of championship day but, hopefully, I'll be asked to stay involved with one of the less demanding roles in the future."

Brenda has been involved in athletics for 49 years when she was introduced to the sport in 1958 as the English Schools' Championships were being held in her home town of Houghton-le-Spring.

They were thinking of starting an athletics club in the town and Brenda went along and became a founder member.

She was one of a group that went on produce a number of internationals including Ernie Promfret and Lynn Harding.

"After the English Schools' were held in Houghton an athletics club was quickly established and I was involved from the start," she added.

"I didn't have a lot of success as an athlete but that wasn't really important as it didn't hinder my love for the sport.

"At the time, I never thought that in years to come I'd be going to European and Commonwealth Championships and Olympic Games as a spectator.

"In my time as an athlete and then as an administrator, I can honestly say I've enjoyed every moment.

"And when big Reedy presented me with a beautiful bouquet and gift, it brought everything into perspective.

"Paul has been a great supporter of the championships while I've been involved. I only wish more athletes were like him and pencil in the championships date as a priority.

"Hopefully, with a change of leadership we will see an upturn in entries starting with the indoor championships next year.

"We have excellent facilities and tremendous support from Gateshead Council so we should take advantage of that."