KINGSTON, Jamaica – Tributes have poured in for outstanding track and field analyst and broadcaster, Hubert Lawrence, who passed away here Friday.
Track and field broadcaster Hubert Lawrence.Lawrence, 64, who made a name for himself over several decades with his deep knowledge and incisive analysis of the sport, was found unresponsive at his home in the southeastern parish of St Catherine, media reports here said.
And Prime Minister Andrew Holness led tributes to Jamaican Lawrence, hailing his “profound knowledge and passion for the sport.”
“With a career spanning over three decades, Hubert played a crucial role in television coverage of prestigious athletic events such as the Olympics and World Championships, as well as local meets,” Holness said.
“His contributions as a columnist for the Daily Gleaner showcased his profound knowledge and passion for the sport.
“May his outstanding legacy continue to inspire future generations.”
Sports Minister Olivia Grange, said Lawrence’s passing would leave “a huge void” in the profession.
“Easily among the best authorities on the sport in the world,” Grange said.
“His passing at only 64 years old has left me in shock and will leave a huge void in commentary and analysis on the sport.”
The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, in a release, described Lawrence as “extraordinary”.
“The JAAA is deeply saddened by the passing of extraordinary track and field analyst and journalist Hubert Lawrence,” the JAAA said.
“He dedicated his life to the sport we love. Sincere condolences to his many friends and his family. May his soul rest in peace.”
The Sports Development Foundation, an independent body which aids in funding of national associations, said Lawrence had “[inspired] generations with his passion and knowledge.”
“Hubert Lawrence was a veteran sports journalist, analyst, author, and commentator known for his incisive commentary, insightful interviews, and unwavering dedication to local sports,” the foundation said.
“He was a true champion for athletes and sports development in Jamaica, inspiring generations with his passion and knowledge.
“He was well known as well for his balanced and insightful commentaries and interviews and further not only to local sports but also in the region and internationally.”
Lawrence became synonymous with the Caribbean’s coverage of the Olympic Games, World Championships and CARIFTA meets, and was also an author and co-author of books on track and field.
And Christopher Samuda, president of the Jamaica Olympic Association, praised Lawrence’s contribution to the Olympic movement, noting his analysis gave “context” to statistics.
“He gave statistics context in his written and spoken word, so that players could understand the culture of the sport more, their role and responsibility, and be guided by the principles of Olympicism, which is pen-inked in personalizing successive Olympic Games,” he said.
“The Olympic family mourns his mortality, but is assured and assures his family that his soul now rests eternally,”
Lawrence had been scheduled to be part of the television coverage of the 2024 Gibson McCook Relays on Saturday.
