GREATER GEORGETOWN, Guyana – Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), H.E. Edwin Carrington has extended deepest condolences to the wife, relatives, and Government of Jamaica, on the passing of the late outstanding athlete, Herbert Henry McKenley.
In a Tribute to Mr. McKenley, the Secretary-General said that his outstanding achievements seated him comfortably among the distinguished stalwarts of any era, nationally, regionally and globally.
“His outstanding entry onto the world athletic stage in the 1948 London Olympics where he captured the silver medal in the 400m, along with his pivotal role in winning the gold medal for Jamaica in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics 4x400m relay, stands as testimony to the remarkable achievements of this inductee of the Jamaican Sports Hall of Fame,” the Secretary General said.
“It is with great sorrow that the Caribbean Community has learnt of the passing of Herb McKenley. In every field of endeavor, there have been stalwarts: persons who have demonstrated remarkable talent, dedication and grit in their chosen field and in so doing have left a legacy that has served to inspire individuals, communities and indeed nations.
The outstanding achievements of Herbert Henry McKenley O.M., seats him comfortably among the distinguished stalwarts of any era, nationally, regionally and globally. His outstanding entry onto the world athletic stage in the 1948 London Olympics where he captured the silver medal in the 400m, along with his pivotal role in winning the gold medal for Jamaica in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics 4x400m relay, stands as testimony to the remarkable achievements of this inductee of the Jamaican Sports Hall of Fame. McKenley remains the only man to have reached the finals of the Olympic 100 metres, 200 metres and 400 metres. He was also the first man to run the quarter mile under 46 seconds as well as under 45 seconds and at various times was the world record holder at 300 yards, 440 yards, 300 metres and 400 metres.
Aside from his distinguished career in track and field, this true sportsman has made significant contributions to the development of sport in Jamaica throughout his ten years as President of the Jamaica Amateur Athletics Association. During his tenure, critical foundations were laid for the rise of Jamaica as the powerhouse of Track and Field in the Region, and in the world which we are now witnessing.
Prime among his many achievements, it is the view of many that by far Herb McKenley’s most significant contribution was in the area of youth development. Emanating from his role as coach and mentor, stories abound of the many hours spent in the training and nurturing of youngsters, ensuring that none under his fold went hungry and none was left behind. His dedication of quality time and personal resources have certainly redounded to the benefit of countless youths from all sectors of the Jamaican society. Through him, scores of scholarships were negotiated for local athletes to study, train and perform overseas. Today, many of these have returned and are making substantial contributions to the advancement of the Jamaican and Caribbean society across all sectors.
On behalf of the Caribbean Community, I extend deepest condolences to his wife Beverley and his family as well as to the Government and people of Jamaica as the Region salutes the tremendous contribution of this son of the Caribbean soil.”
