WELCOME HOME, our very own Olympian, Neil Gourley. He’s tough enough to race against the world’s best; he’s come through the cauldron of a roaring 70,000-strong crowd in a global super-stadium; he’s cool enough to win national titles and set ultra-quick times … but he was rocked back speechless when he arrived home from Paris ‘24 to find his front garden packed with applauding fans and friends from his home club.
After warm words of congratulation from Club President Billy Glasgow, Neil swiftly regained his customary professional poise, thanked everyone for their much-appreciated support, and set about autographing everything in sight for the dozens of GNAC youngsters who had come to set eyes on a genuine, local Olympian.
Overheard, as Neil signed young Evan Tyler’s race number from last weekend’s Scottish Championships:
Neil: “Ah, the Scottish Championships! How did you get on?”
Evan: “I got a bronze.”
Neil: “That’s good – were you happy with your performance?”
Evan: “I was a bit disappointed.”
Neil: “Y’know, I felt that way too.”
Maybe that wee exchange shows there’s no gap at all between young hopeful and seasoned elite athlete. They share the same dreams, disappointments and exultations, the same hard yards and essential camaraderie. As the Paris ‘24 Olympic phrased the Olympic motto: Faster. Higher. Stronger. Together.
Huge congratulations to Neil on his stellar achievements and best wishes for his upcoming Diamond League races.
Massive “merci” to Neil’s parents Ronnie and Wilma for providing the perfect homecoming venue as well as refreshments, cakes and more (La Bruine du Citron was pure magnifique). They collaborated brilliantly with the conniving conspiratorial crew who put the event together so seamlessly (it was staples, mostly). You know who you are.
Well done, all. But especially Neil.
Report by Croy Thomson
All photographs courtesy of Colin Mearns