"London Club of the Year", & Lifetime Service Award for Graham Pribul

At the England Athletics Regional Volunteer Awards on Saturday, the club was voted "London Club of the Year" and there was also a Lifetime Service Award for Graham Pribul.  As previously reported, we were able to let Graham know he had won this accolade prior to him passing away last month. For Club of the Year, our citation read as follows:

Woodford Green AC with Essex Ladies has demonstrated outstanding achievement across every facet of club life. From Olympic-level athletes to thriving grassroots programmes, their success spans performance, coaching, officiating, and community engagement. With tailored training, inclusive initiatives like WASPS, and a welcoming culture, the club nurtures talent of all ages and abilities. Their commitment to development is clear; achieving all seven club standards, expanding volunteer involvement, and launching innovative schemes like kit recycling and scholarships. WGEL is not just a club, it’s a vibrant, supportive community that exemplifies excellence in athletics.

Club Secretary David Hollingworth explained that the award was for the whole club: the Committee recognised that to be competitive in the juniors the club needed to be strong over all disciplines. The coaches really focussed on those events WGEL didn't have strength in, and hopefully they will move to the club's senior ranks. Paul Cheal added, "Also, we kept everything going safely through the COVID period when many were not doing anything and those U11s are now our strong U13s and U15s."

Graham Pribul's legacy spans over five decades of unwavering service to athletics. From his early roles in Southampton to 31 years as Treasurer at Woodford, Graham was a pillar of dedication, integrity and quiet leadership. He officiated across all disciplines, organised countless events, and championed youth development through school races that launched future Olympians. His work securing Gift Aid funding brought vital support to his club, and his presence at local, county, and national levels shaped the sport for generations. Graham’s impact was profound and enduring - his memory will continue to inspire all who follow in his footsteps. Graham sadly passed away at the end of August so David Hollingworth accepted the award on behalf of Graham's family. The presentation was filmed in full so that his family could watch it from home.