Bid to recognise KK McArthur

THE competitors are ready; josting for position, eagerly awaiting the sound of the starters pistol, the adrenalin, the frustration suddenly explodes in unison with the crack of the starters pistol. What awaits them is the most arduous, the most gruelling endurance event in the Olympic calendar.
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Feb 2010, 13:09 BST

This particular synopsis extrapolates the postion of Dervock & District Community Association.

Frankie Cunningham, a leading official in the Association, commented: "This particular metaphor defines exactly the position, the frustration in acheiving recognition for Kennedy Kane McArthur (1881-1960) who won the gold medal in the marathon at the Olympic Games in Stockholm.

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"Born in Dervock, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland, McArthur was one of the first Irishmen to gain such an accolade and become a national hero".

He added, "Recently a small committe looked at alternative methods to promote Kennedy Kane McArthur and the village of Dervock. We engaged with Lee Henry (CultureNorthernIreland) and Keith Beattie (Manager of Ballymoney Museum) - which resulted in a well documented, well researched article being added to the website www.culturenorthernireland.org

Keith Beattie said, "As Museum Manager, I'm delighted to be able to support this campaign to bring McArthur's achievements to a global audience as we approach the 2012 Olympics. The story has a message for all young people with aspirations in sport and it also gives North Antrim a strong link with communities across the world in South Africa.

"With the advantage of 21st century technology it has never been easier to build these links and I hope that, through McArthur's sporting legacy, groups in this area will make new friends in Potchefstroom and enjoy sharing the heritage of McArthur's remarkable achievement".

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"KK McArthur's success is also proudly remembered in South Africa. As a young man he emigrated from Dervock to South Africa and he competed at the 1912 Olympics under the colours of his adopted country. Nevertheless, after his triumph, he insisted in returning to Dervock to celebrate with his family and friends before sailing for Cape Town. He ran six marathon races (including the Olympic marathon) throughout his career and never lost one. He crossed the line as the marathon champion after two hours 36 minutes and 54.8 seconds - a new Olympic record. Kenneth McArthur died in Potchefstroom at the age of 79".

"This 2012 project has attracted the interest of various bodies including the organisation committee for the London Olympics. The NI Task Force is aware of our plans – the next two years will be busy – We would implore everyone to visit the website, to realize our legacy."

Related topics:Dervock