Orien G. Young
Orien Gladwin Young, formerly of Ely’s Harbour, Sandys, son of the late Orien and Albertha Young, died on Friday, September 30th, 2016 in Portsmouth, England at the age of 85.
Orien leaves to mourn his death, his wife Shirley [of 63 years], daughter Geraldine Underwood, 2 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He is survived by his sister, Janet Morris [NY], nieces, nephews and numerous relatives. He was pre-deceased by his brother Eric [Buster] Young and Joan Gooden.
Orien was the Bermuda champion of the 60, 100 and 220 yard dash in the 1950s. Orien represented Bermuda in the 1954 British Empire and Commonwealth Games in Vancouver, Canada in both the 100 and 220 yards events.
He was one of the 50 Dockyard Apprentices that travelled to Portsmouth, England in the early 1950s to complete their training with the British Admiralty. He later worked for the British Government.
Upon settling in Portsmouth, Orien quickly associated himself with the Portsmouth Athletics and competed nationally. He was a founding member of Portsmouth Joggers Club.
It was remarked by Phil Budd, longtime friend of Orien, “It is with great sadness that I have to report the death of Orien Young. Orien was one of those figures that will be forever synonymous with Portsmouth Athletic Club. A former international and still a club record holder Orien devoted his post competitive life to coaching, officiating and managing the club.
“He was an honorary Life Vice President and for many years club President. But it is the humility and humanity, the wisdom and support that Orien offered that will remain with those of us that knew him. He was already a legendary figure within the club when I joined as an awe struck school boy in 1968 but that was Orien the athlete, I didn’t get to know Orien the man until much later, but he was equally impressive. It was not age but ill health that curtailed Orien’s activities within the club.
“Having been on dialysis for a considerable period he subsequently had two kidney transplants and perhaps Orien will be longest remembered outside of the club for his central role in setting up the Transplant Games. An exemplary club man, a generous coach and a true friend to athletics.”
Orien’s funeral will take place at 12.15 on 27 October at ‘The Oaks’, Bartons Way, Havant, England. It will be preceded by Orien completing his final 100m on the track at Alexandra Park at 11.30. Following the service there will be a wake at the Mountbatten Centre.
Orien’s family has asked that any donations are made to Transplant Sport, which was close to Orien’s heart. BACS payments can be made to Sort Code 30-96-11 Account Number 24625060 and cheques payable to TSUK and posted to Transplant Sport UK, Windsor Cottage, 90 Midhurst Road, Liphook, Hants GU30 7HA.
