John McDonald from Central Athletic Club was honoured with the special award of a Honorary Life Membership by Scottish Athletics at the annual award ceremony in Glasgow.

John has taking a lead in steering Central to now be classed as one of the top athletic clubs in Scotland with over 20 years of dedication to the club and the sport. He has served two terms as club President, but on the sporting front is well known for having managed the Central Senior men’s team to topping the Scottish Athletic League on five occasions.

The Awards night also had local interests with Central the only club short-listed for two Club of year awards both the ‘Track and Field Club of Year’ and the ‘Off-Track Club of Year’.

After another dominant year in cross country and road racing including winning both male and female National Cross Country Championships and National Cross Country relays, Central won the ‘Off-Track’ award.

The key player in winning that award was Derek Easton who was short-listed for Coach of the Year, but that honour went to Andy Young, coach of Laura Muir.

Laura won the night’s top award as Athlete of the Year after another successful year on the world stage in World Championships and the Diamond League.

Central took a small part in helping Laura on her way as she competed for the Central-led Forth Valley ladies team as a young up and coming athlete.