It seems we are a two-man crusade in our attempts for more modern recognition for Dick McTaggart.
Regular contributor Rob Boag has even contacted Scotland’s First Minister in an attempt to propel the Olympic and Commonwealth gold medallist into her thoughts.”
“I thought I’d give this a go, and have sent an email to Nicola Sturgeon,” he said.
“It read . . .”
Hi Nicola,
A famous Scot celebrates his 80th birthday on October 15th this year, he was an amateur sportsman at a time when folks competing in sports never received any financial support regardless of their achievements and success — arguably, he is the greatest Scottish amateur sportsman ever.
His accomplishments?
Olympic gold medal; The Val Barker Trophy — the only person in the UK ever to be honoured with this prestigious award; Olympic bronze medal; British Commonwealth gold medal; British Commonwealth silver medal.
The list of accomplishments goes on, and it’s a long one, so I don’t wish to distract you.
England did recognise his remarkable contribution to British sport by awarding him the MBE but there is paucity of recognition from Scotland and from his birth city. Can you fit this lad into your schedule on October 15, Nicola, and wish a great Scot a happy 80th birthday?
Best regards, Rob Boag.
PS — The upcoming octogenarian is Richard McTaggart.
I’ve also been busy on the local front and have spoken to local SNP councillor Craig Melville about Dick’s upcoming 80th. I’ll keep you posted.
Have a story for John? Email: jbrown@dcthomson.co.uk
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