I am sure that most of you will already have heard that Ron passed away peacefully in his sleep last week after a protracted illness which had left him bed ridden of late. Ron was a “larger than life” character, and will be remembered by all those who ever came into contact with him. Joining the National Skating Association (the governing body for all skating at that time) in 1947, his skating achievements were legendary, being proficient at Speed Skating and Roller Hockey before transitioning to Dance. Ron was a UK Dance champion and competed at World level in Dance between 1962 and 1966 achieving 4th and 5th places. Ron was always active in the administration of our sport, being a member of the NSA Council where he served on the finance committee. He served as a member of the Committee for Artistic Roller Skating for many years, becoming the Honorary Secretary. At European level, he was elected a member of CEPA and was their President for two years. In 1964 Ron was appointed a national judge, and he followed this by becoming an international judge in 1975. Ron will be well known for his judging of events in the UK, but also at European and World level. A great ambassador for Great Britain, Ron acted as team manager for numerous international teams. He was at the forefront of organising many competitions and galas, not forgetting the Junior European Championships in 1981. Ron served as FARS President from 2005 to 2011 at which time he was elected a Trustee. Further information on Ron’s skating career and achievements can be found on the FARS website under the Roll of Honour section into which he was inducted in 2012. In consultation with Bobbie and Ron’s family, they have requested that flowers are not sent for the service. FARS will be sending flowers in the style of a skating boot, however Ron’s Son Paul said “Dad would have felt that people would have wasted so much money by sending flowers and would frown upon that” The federation and Bobbie feel that we should honour Ron in a different way by ensuring that his legacy lives on in the sport which he loved so much. As a result, we will be introducing two new trophies funded by members donations. The Ron Gibbs Memorial Trophies (one for dance and one for Figures and Free) will be awarded on an annual basis to recognise skaters who have during the Championships have shown excellence and have deemed to be worthy of the highest domestic accolade within the sport. Those individuals or clubs who would like to pay tribute to Ron in this way should make their payment to Justin who will be administering the collection of the funds. The bank details are as follows – Account – J Wootten Sort Code – 30-67-72 Account Number – 47444162 A note will be sent to Bobbie and family to let her know of all the clubs and individuals who honour Ron in this way. Vic Pratt Company Secretary |
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