Scottish Commonwealth running star dies aged 38 as athletics world pays tribute

TRIBUTES have been paid to a Scottish Commonwealth Games star following his tragic death aged just 38.

Alastair Hay competed for Scotland at the 2010 games in New Delhi, India.

He finished 12th in the 1500 metres.

Scottish Athletics confirmed the death today.

They revealed details of his funeral and sent their sympathies to Alastair’s wife and two children.

The sporting body said: “The Central AC legend was a towering figure in every sense in our endurance community and club scene for more than 20 years.

“With the approval of Alastair’s family, and working closely with Central AC, we are now able to share funeral details.

“We send our deepest condolences to Lynsey and their two boys, everyone at the club and to all Alastair’s many friends across our sport.”

Mr Hay’s running club Central AC also shared their tribute to the athlete.

They said: “It is with deep sadness that we would like to inform members and friends of the passing of Alastair Hay.

“Ali was an outstanding performer for Central for over 20 years.

“Moreover, he was an even better friend to all within the club, incredibly kind spirited, and a great supporter of the club and all its athletes.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his wife Lynsey, his young sons and all his family.”

The athletic world was shocked by the sad news as they paid tribute to Mr Hay.

Scottish Athletics Head of Communications Peter Jardine posted a video tribute Mr Hay as the sporting body announced the heartbreaking news.

In a video posted to YouTube, he said: “It is a desperately sad occasion that we’ve shared news today of the sad passing of Alistair Hay.

“He really was a Central AC legend and a massive figure in our community, across our clubs and across endurance for a number of years.

“I interviewed Ali on a number of occasions over the past 13 years – and every single time the word that would come to mind would be “modest”.

“Anytime I spoke to him, Ali put the emphasis on the team, he was always about others, and he was hugely proud of Central AC’s fantastic record in cross country and road running over those years.

“He was a terrific guy and he will be sorely sorely missed.

“We sent our deepest sympathies to all in his family and to the Central AC family as well.”

Scottish 1,500m champion Myles Edward said: “Hard to think of anyone with Scottish Athletics who fits the term ‘legend’ better. Thinking of you all.”

Runner Lewis Millar said: “A true hero and inspiration to many. Not just @Central_AC but in the wider @scotathletics community.

“Universally liked by all and it was a great honour to not only run thousands of miles with Ali over the years but more importantly to have him as a friend. Rest easy Super Ali.”

Coach Geoff Wightman posted: “Incredibly sad news. Ali was one of the gentlemen of our sport.

“A loyal, one-club man for a quarter of a century.

“He was at the heart of everything that Central achieved domestically and further afield.

“His Scottish XC wins in 2009 & 10 live long in the memory. Rest in peace.”

Endurance coach Michael Wright wrote: “‘A Legend’ is a clichéd term, but not for Ali Hay.

“I had the pleasure of training with Ali for over 20 years at @Centra_AC.

“A man who will be remembered not only for his supreme athletic talent, but also for his kind spirit to those around him.

“He will be sorely missed.”