Stanley Burgess

Achievements:

• Marathon Derby Champion: Won the Bermuda Marathon Derby multiple times, becoming one of the island's greatest athletes of the first half of the 20th century.

• Longevity in Sport: Competed in the Derby into his 80s, running his last race in 1983 at the age of 82.

• Community Hero: Earned the nickname "Sir" Stanley from the public for his enduring spirit and contributions to the sport.

Biography:

Stanley Burgess was a larger-than-life character whose achievements in the Bermuda Marathon Derby were matched only by the legendary stories that surrounded his victories. A true champion, Burgess became one of Bermuda's most beloved heroes as he continued to compete well into his 80s. Known for his signature white kerchief and his "secret concoction" for vitality and stamina, Burgess was a fixture of the Derby, drawing cheers from the crowd each year.

Burgess's dedication to running began in his youth, when he would run five miles daily from school to home and then to his father's job to deliver his lunch box. As a fisherman from Flatts, he first made a name for himself in the 1926 unofficial Marathon Derby, which he won three years in a row, establishing himself as one of the island's top runners. His significant breakthrough came in 1929 when he placed second behind two-time champion Wesley Bascome, setting the stage for his first official Marathon Derby victory in 1930 after a thrilling duel with Richard Darrell over the 12-mile course.

Although Stanley couldn't repeat his success in 1931 and faced tough competition from legends Max Smith and Kenneth Castle throughout the 1930s, he remained a formidable competitor. The 1940s brought new challenges, with James Robinson emerging as a dominant runner. However, in 1943, at the age of 42, Burgess shocked everyone by winning the Derby. He secured back-to-back titles in 1946 and 1947, bringing his total to four victories and solidifying his place among the greats.

Despite losing to George and Arthur Lambert in 1948 and 1949, Stanley defied age and claimed back-to-back titles again in 1950 and 1951, becoming the oldest man to win the Derby. Even as a senior runner, he consistently placed in the top five throughout the 1950s. Though he was no longer a threat to win in the 1960s, he remained competitive, often outpacing novice runners much younger than himself.

Stanley's popularity only grew in the 1970s and 1980s. He became easily recognizable with his white handkerchief and was cheered wildly as he crossed the finish line, even when he occasionally received a ride over the distance in his later years. His enduring spirit and contributions to the sport earned him the affectionate title of "Sir" Stanley from the public.

Legacy:

Stanley Burgess's legacy is one of perseverance, dedication, and community spirit. Known as "Mr. Marathon" and "The Iron Horse," he is celebrated for his longevity and impact on Bermuda's running community. His remarkable career, spanning decades and defying age, has inspired generations of runners. Stanley's contributions to the Bermuda Marathon Derby and his beloved status as a sporting legend ensure that his memory will continue to be cherished by the island's sporting community for years to come.