Farewell To Russell
One of Glasgow's best (and friendliest) club runners has passed away suddenly...
All at runABC were saddened to hear of the death of Russell Whittington. A long-term Bellahouston Road Runner, in more recent years he had moved across to Giffnock North AC and continued to produce fantastic times across all distances.
Russell passed away on Sunday after succumbing to sepsis. His wife Maureen has said: "All the family are overcome with grief in announcing the very sudden and shocking death of our most dearly loved Russell. He died in the QEUH on Sunday 22 of September from septic shock. He was rapidly overwhelmed by the infection but battled as hard as he could to the end. We are utterly heartbroken.
"Russell was my absolute soul-mate and I was so blessed to be his wife. He was the most caring, loving father, kind and generous to a fault. The best son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle anyone could have, and as you will all know, the most beautiful, thoughtful and fun-loving friend to so many. 'Run for Home' Running Man."
A one-time Guinness world record holder – Russell and his dad Jeff lowered the fastest time for a parent and child running a marathon to an aggregate time of 5:42:01 in 2012 – he included New York, Berlin, Havana, Valencia, Paris, Lake Garda, Belfast, Loch Ness and Edinburgh in his marathon CV. He also completed the legendary Comrades Ultra Marathon in 2005.
He will be sorely missed by the running community in Glasgow, and beyond. All of our condolences are with Russell's family and friends.
Image: Russell Whittington & Paula Radcliffe