Fred Bush
It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of Fred Bush, a lifelong athlete, devoted club member, and much-loved figure within the Haslemere sporting community.
It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of Fred Bush, a lifelong athlete, devoted club member, and much-loved figure within the Haslemere sporting community.
Fred's association with athletics stretched back more than six decades. As one of the early members of what became Haslemere Border Athletic Club, he was involved during the formative years of the club and witnessed its growth from a small local athletics organisation into one of Surrey's well-respected community clubs. Club histories record that, as a teenager of just 17, Fred took part in many of the club's earliest activities and challenges, displaying the enthusiasm and determination that would characterise his lifelong involvement in athletics.
Throughout his life, Fred remained committed to Haslemere Border AC. His dedication extended far beyond competition, and he became one of the club's most respected servants, eventually serving as President of Haslemere Border Athletic Club. Even in later years he continued to play an active role in club affairs, attending meetings and supporting the development of future generations of athletes.
Fred was always a very good club and team person. Always ready to compete at “anything” to make up the team. A real “have a go” competitor. He was a good committee member, someone you could rely on. Everything had to stop for the horses though.
As an athlete, Fred demonstrated remarkable longevity. While many competitors retire from track and field long before reaching later life, Fred continued to train and compete into Masters athletics. His performances earned places in the Surrey County Athletics Association's Masters Championship Best Performance records. Among his most notable achievements was a 400 metres hurdles performance of 49.2 seconds in the M60 age category, achieved at Kingston on 24 May 2008. He was also recorded with an M60 100 metres performance of 14.73 seconds at Kingston in 2019. These achievements reflected not only talent but also an extraordinary commitment to fitness, discipline, and competition well beyond the age at which most athletes have long since retired.
Fred belonged to a generation that helped establish the culture and traditions of Haslemere Border AC. During the years in which the club produced county champions, nationally ranked athletes, and international competitors, Fred remained a constant presence and a passionate advocate for athletics in the local community. His knowledge of the sport, encouragement of fellow athletes, and unwavering loyalty to the club earned him widespread respect and affection.
For many members of Haslemere Border AC, Fred was more than an athlete or official; he was part of the club's identity. He represented the values that grassroots athletics strives to promote: dedication, sportsmanship, friendship, and service. His contribution cannot be measured solely by times, records, or positions held, but by the countless people whose lives he touched through his encouragement, example, and commitment.
Fred leaves behind a legacy within Haslemere Border Athletic Club and the wider athletics community. He will be remembered as a loyal clubman, a determined competitor, and a true gentleman of the sport.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
May he rest in peace.