It is with great regret that we have to report the death of former international race walker and oft times Sussex Champion Stuart George Elms at seventy-six.
Stuart came late to the sport having worked for Southdown and was a frequent winner of the “Southdown” Ditchling to Withdean annual walk in the 1970w. He was spotted by Brighton & Hove’s Alan Buchanan who, for many years, helped guide him through his early years with the Brighton & Hove club. Towards the end of his walking career, Stuart joined Steyning Athletic Club.
He quickly made progress and became on the top Sussex walkers winning many championship medals at a time when Sussex walking was one of the Top walking Counties in the Country. He was at his best over the longer distances and gained a British International vest in 1976, over 35km, after a fine win in the Qualification race.
He is listed on the Sussex All-time Top Ten lists and is ranked third over 50km with 4hrs 17min 52s in 1978, eighth with 1:32:46 over 20km Road in 1977, and fifth with 43:35 for the 10,000km T, in 1976. He also had times of 6:33.35 for one mile in 1978, 12:46.2 for 3,000m in 1976 and 22:15.0 in 1976 for 5,000m.
He had been ill for a couple of years and in a Care Home.
The funeral will not be held until later in September.