The world of sports is filled with inspiring stories, but this one is truly remarkable! Northumberland sculptor Tom Maley is on a mission to honor a local legend, Jim Alder, with a statue in his hometown of Morpeth. But here's the twist: Alder's journey to greatness is as captivating as his athletic achievements.
Maley, renowned for sculpting iconic figures like Sir Bobby Robson, Alan Shearer, and 'Wor' Jackie Milburn, is now turning his attention to Alder, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist. Alder's story is one of determination and perseverance, as he juggled his day job as a bricklayer with an extraordinary running career.
Born in Glasgow, Alder moved to Morpeth in 1950, where he found a new family through foster care. His athletic prowess shone in the 1960s, when he became one of the world's top distance runners. The highlight? A Commonwealth Games gold in a race that had a dramatic twist.
In Kingston, Jamaica, Alder dominated the marathon, leading by a significant margin as he approached the stadium. But fate had a surprise in store. The arrival of the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles, and Princess Anne caused a detour, sending Alder in the wrong direction. Despite this, he managed to catch up and overtake his rival, Bill Adcocks, just 15 yards from the finish line. It's a story that still sparks debate among sports enthusiasts.
Alder's success didn't stop there. He claimed bronze in the 10,000 meters at the same games and silver four years later in Edinburgh. But his journey began with a simple goal: to win the New Year's Day race from Morpeth to Newcastle, which he achieved an impressive five times.
Alder's achievements extended beyond the Commonwealth Games. He secured a marathon bronze at the 1969 European Championship in Athens and set multiple world records. All the while, he continued working as a bricklayer, commuting 150 miles a week on foot to his job at Stannington Hospital. His dedication earned him an MBE in 2007.
Sculptor Tom Maley is eager to immortalize Alder's legacy, stating, "Jim Alder is a North East sporting legend. His career achievements were phenomenal, inspiring generations of athletes." Maley's statue will capture the moment of Alder's victory in Jamaica, wearing the blue vest of Scotland. The planned installation in August, on the 60-year anniversary of his gold medal race, will be a fitting tribute.
Alder, now 85, is deeply moved, expressing his gratitude and humility. But here's where it gets controversial—should Alder's statue be placed in a prominent location, or is a more intimate setting in Morpeth Town center more fitting? Where do you think the statue should stand? Share your thoughts and let's celebrate this incredible athlete's journey!
