Running facility at Posties Park renamed in honour of Lachie Stewart

Alexandria-born Lachie became a national hero after winning the 10,000 metres gold for Scotland at the 1970 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh. 

He went on to represent Great Britain at the 1972 Munich Olympics and was inducted into the Scottish Athletics Hall of Fame in 2018. 

He continued to advocate for the sport after retirement and right up until he passed away in May aged 81 after a short illness. 

Now, after a motion by Councillor David McBride, his legacy will continue inspire new generations of athletes, both locally and nationally, with the new track named in his honour. 

Members of his family and officials from West Dunbartonshire Council, West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust and Scottish Athletics gathered earlier today to unveil the sign and mark the milestone. 

Councillor McBride, Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “Lachie Stewart was a proud son of West Dunbartonshire and one of Scotland’s most celebrated athletes. 

“He made a lasting contribution to Scottish athletics, not only through his remarkable achievements in competition, but also through his continued advocacy for the sport following his retirement. 

“Renaming our running facility after him allows us to recognise both his extraordinary sporting accomplishments, and his lifelong connection to our community.” 

Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, Vice Convener of the committee, added: “Lachie was such a positive influence on sport nationally and in West Dunbartonshire and we are delighted to name this new facility after him.   

“This is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to running and a lasting legacy for his family and the local athletics community for generations to come.” 

Lachie’s son Glen Stewart, speaking on behalf of the family, said: “We are all delighted that the park has been named after my dad, Lachie, who was so passionate about athletics and keen to inspire the next generation. 

“Thank you to West Dunbartonshire Council for making this happen and to local athletics advocate Maurice Donohue for the suggestion which was taken forward. 

“It is a real honour and, alongside his Commonwealth Games victory and his experiences at the Olympics, will provide us with another incredible lasting memory of him.”