Track and field legend Hubert Lawrence passes

Gleaner reporter, noted columnist and veteran track and field analyst Hubert Lawrence has died.

The 64-year-old St Jago High School old boy, an ever-present staple on The Gleaner's sports pages, was world-renowned for his handle on track and field statistics, and in later years, leaned on the all-powerful archive he had been building since 1981 to co-author two books, 'Power and Glory: Jamaica in World Athletics, from WWII to the Diamond League Era' and '50 Days Fire'. His almost omnipresent status at all major meets since 1981 meant he was also an integral part of 'Champs 100'.

He was also a staple on TVJ's coverage for a number of World Athletics Championships, Olympic Games, and Carifta Games.

In fact, he should have been working this morning as part of the coverage of the Gibson McCook Relays.

The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association says it is deeply saddened by his passing.

“The JAAA is deeply saddened by the passing of extraordinary track and field analyst and journalist Hubert Lawrence. He dedicated his life to the sport we love. Sincere condolences to his many friends and his family. May his soul rest in peace.”

The Gleaner Sports Desk has also come out to pay respect to the fallen legend.

“There is a hole in the newsroom, I daresay, can never be filled. Condolences to Hubert's family, friends, and throngs of supporters. Hubert took the coverage of sports, not just track and field, to levels of detail that will not soon be replicated. His attention to that detail was phenomenal,” said Sports Editor Paul-Andre Walker.

“But more than a sports journalist and analyst, Lawrence was a gentleman of the highest integrity, believing in the concepts of respect for fellow man, even in the heights of the most serious of disagreements. In 20 years, I have never heard him raise his voice, yet his command of his field was unquestionable.”