Until fairly recently a thin frail looking figure could be seen jogging around the perimeter of Old Anniesland,this was Ian Binnie one of Scotland's greatest ever distance athletes who died on Thursday night after a short illness
Few who watched him pad past realised his achievements.Ian won the 3 and 6 mile double at the Scottish Championships on three consecutive years represented Scotland at the Empire Games of 1954 (where Bannister beat Landy) and 1958 and was ranked third in the world over 6 miles in 1952 behind only the great Emil Zatopek and Gordon Pirie whilst also setting numerous National records
On one historic occasion at the White City London he took Gordon Pirie to the world record over 6 miles.In the same year he attempted to run 12 miles in the Hour at the Cowal Highland Games at Dunoon.He managed 11 miles 1571 yds setting a Uk and Empire record and the excitement was such that the massed bands broke ranks to line the track to cheer him on.
His many exploits at the Rangers Sports led Bill Struth the Rangers manager at the time to give Ian a set of keys for Ibrox so he could let himself in to train.
A full appreciation by Doug Gillon will appear in the Herald shortly--read it and see what it takes when you aim to be the best.

This article was originally posted on 28-Jul-2007, 07:48 by Hugh Barrow.
Last updated by Hugh Barrow on 28-Jul-2007, 07:53.