The legendary Joe Lancaster died last month at his home in Italy aged 89. Joe started running for Manchester
Joe Lancaster, left, training the Manchester City squad with, centre, Malcolm Allison and, right, former mile world record-holder Derek Ibbotson
Athletic Club in 1949 and six years later set the World 2 Hour Record covering 22 miles 418 yards finishing 140 yards ahead of Gordon Pirie. He contracted TB and turned his energy into training others, including Trevor Wright and the successful Manchester City team of the late 60’s and early 70’s. He also provided training for Manchester United for a while.
Most of time was spent as a freelance journalist, writing for the Manchester Evening News, using every trick of the trade to produce copy and imparting wisdom to many athletes who undertook work on his behalf. I particularly remember him telling me that all editors were rogues – something I learned the hard way.
Joe was a character in the true sense of the word and will be missed by all those who knew him.
Phil Thomas
