Described by the youngsters he inspires as “a legend”, Bones’ (Alan Hamilton) contribution to athletics has earned him a spot in the Central Otago Sports Awards hall of fame.

Bones coaches at Alexandra Athletics club and Dunstan High School and has been a stalwart, involved for many years. 

On receiving the award last Thursday night, Bones commented that coaching had been a life long passion of his.

“If I’ve been able to play a small part in helping others to grow into the best version of themselves then I consider that a success. Thank you for the recognition.”

He told The Central App he didn't know who had nominated him, but he was pretty chuffed to get the recognition.

“I’m not the type to go for awards like coach of the year or anything like that. I’m in it to intrinsically help the kids.”

Bones with talented high jumper Mayson Kingi. PHOTO: Image Central 

Comments on Dunstan High School’s Facebook page post about the award lit up with congratulations and memories of Bones’s coaching and how he has taught resilience, confidence and determination to many athletes. 

Bones began coaching athletics at both DHS and Alexandra Athletics club in 1984, when he took up a teaching role in Alexandra. 

Now 69 years old he said he will keep coaching as long as his health allows it.

Alexandra Athletics club members Emily Heckler and Fertia Taiulu. PHOTO: Alexandra Athletics Facebook 

Along with Bones another hall of fame recipient was Wānaka-based Jenny Ferguson, for her long-standing impact on netball as both a player and internationally appointed physiotherapist.

Last year’s entrants in the Central Otago Sports Hall of Fame were Valmai Breen (softball) and John Roche (golf).

Read more: Central sportspeople applauded in awards.

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