Lanark’s John Barrie receives top badminton award

AS a 79-year-old diabetic with a snapped tendon in his right shoulder, Lanark badminton legend John Barrie could be forgiven for wanting to take it easy at this advanced stage in his life.
By The Newsroom
Published 14th Feb 2013, 11:30 BST

But John continues to pass on expertise he’s gleaned in over 50 years of playing the shuttlecock sport when coaching a group of Lanark YMCA club members no fewer than four times a week.

Such dedication was a key factor in John being awarded the Derek Roarty Award by Badminton Scotland, which he received before the recent Scottish National Championship finals in Perth.

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“I still enjoy playing with and coaching these Lanark YMCA kids,” John told Gazette Sport.

“I like to keep fit and pass on my knowledge to them.

“I don’t get any aches and pains so I’ll just keep going on for as long as I keep enjoying it.”

The Derek Roarty Quaich – named after the well-known former umpire and linesman – was presented to John by Scottish Badminton Union president Karen Stalker in front of a 400-strong crowd at the Scottish Nationals.

For more on this story pick up a copy of the Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.

Related topics:Perth