Derek Williams

Derek's earliest inspiration was attending the 1958 Commonwealth Games. Initially a keen rugby player Derek would achieve success in athletics winning several Welsh veteran marathon' titles culminating in a Welsh international vest in 1987. For over a generation Derek has inspired countless athletes ranging from novice to elite, both through his voluntary contributions to Welsh athletics via many administrative positions in regional athletic organisations and as a qualified coach. A loving husband, Derek has cared for his wife who has struggled with ill health in recent years, yet Derek is still found weekly on the trackside nurturing athletic enthusiasm in the younger generations in addition to volunteering at 'Cardiff Parkrun' 146 out of its 172 weekly free running event history. For a life devoted to carrying the torch of promoting athletics across a lifetime, I feel Derek has earned this most prestigious opportunity, namely that of carrying the 2012 Olympic torch.