‘Ode to Arthur’ by Heather Matthews

We met when I was 28
I cautiously approached your gate
You asked me in
We sat and talked
I told you of my dreams.

Before too long
You had it there
The ‘Schedule’ – beyond compare.

This piece of paper was to be
A ‘Bible” for the likes of me
All set out – a simple mix
Giving me my weekly fix.

I can’t forget that first long run
I thought I’d surely die
You ran along beside me – like a pesky little fly
Elbows sticking out, talking endlessly
How I ever made it home – remains a mystery.

However – as the months went by
The training made me strong
You taught me to believe the dream
The road was never long.

We trained and trained for many miles
Through it – many tears and smiles
You loved a joke and so did I
We always had a laugh.

Success came late – but it was sweet
Our partnership was great
You opened many doors for me
That – I appreciate.

We never had an angry word
Too much alike were we
For 30 years we kept the peace
Agreed to disagree.

You were my mentor, coach and friend
A host to beat all hosts
A gentleman, a raconteur, a master - more than most.

And even though I can’t be there
To say goodbye to you
I am with Joan - our mutual friend
We have a rendezvous

On Christmas Day we’ll have a toast
A special one for you.
To our dear coach
The best there was
Our leader and our Don
Run well my friend and don’t despair
Your legacy lives on.

IMAGES:

Heather Matthews (Thompson) with the silver medal from 1978 Commonwealth Games 3000m: she is the last athlete Arthur coached seriously.