John Rene (1958-2021)

Club Chairman Jerry Odlin reports “Sadly, I must report the passing on December 2nd of John Rene at the early age of 63. John had been a member of the club since the late 70’s, firstly as a member of North London AC and subsequently for a few years as a member of London Heathside. John was a much-loved member of the club. His running CV included a constant presence in our XC team for almost 25 years. One of his proudest achievements was winning the Turner Shield, in the years when every XC race in the season counted towards the points score. His marathon best was in the low 2:40’s, and as a trained dressmaker he was a legendary home manufacturer of the briefest shorts any male athlete could ever wish to wear.

In recent years John became a full-time carer for his mother who, at almost 90 years of age, died this summer. John's devotion to his mother resulted in him seeing less of his friends, at the same time having to deal with his own mental health issues and alcoholism. His passing as a result of the latter is a salutary lesson for us all to keep in touch with members and friends who drift and disappear off the radar.

If any friends would like details of John's funeral, please contact me. We hope to receive these from his family in the coming weeks.”