Arthur has always been noted for his uncanny ability to predict events and he told me several times last year that 2004 would be his last year and that, given the choice, he would prefer to die in the United States, among people who valued him most. It's happened because, I believe, this is what he planned or, at least, wanted. Although he was surrounded by close friends here, he was also among his greatest critics and knockers -- the athletic hierarchy and tall poppy slashers who tried to represent him as a spent force whose methods were old hat and outmoded. The rest of the world, of course, knew better.

A wonderful, loyal, friendly man who gave unstinting support to anyone who sought it, Arthur, I believe, chose his going and, as usual, achieved total success.

He leaves a gap that can never be filled but I hope our books together, the millions who believe in him and have benefited from his counsel and guidance and his biography will keep him alive for generations to come.  I know that, if I had not fallen under his spell, I would now be dead. For him and because of him, I gave up too much drinking, a lack of exercise and too many cigarettes -- 80 a day when I met him in 1959 -- and allowed him to turn my life around. I will be forever thankful that Arthur Lydiard happened to me.

As Richard Mayer suggests, there is more to be done to maintain Arthur's name and philosophy in front of the world.

My warmest regards

Garth