History

Ivanhoe Harriers was founded by the Rev. S. L. Buckley in March, 1914, as a cross-country team. In the early 1920's with the help of the YMCA and the Ivanhoe Grammar School, the Club grew into a powerful combination, which dominated and indeed became unbeatable in A Grade competition through the 1930's.

A history of Ivanhoe Harriers, “The First 80 Years in the Life of the Ivanhoe Harriers Athletic Club”, was compiled by Andrew Edney in 1994. This is a very detailed account of the Club’s history to 1994 (209 pages).
The Ivanhoe Harriers Handbook has been updated each year and records many of the outstanding performances by past and current members. A number of past members have represented Australia at Olympic Games, World Championships, Commonwealth Games and other international events. That said, the Club provides a supportive and friendly environment for athletes of all standards.

Historically, competition success and the enduring nature of the Club has been built on the dedication of past (and present) members. The Club lost one of its dearest and most committed members in 2006. Lew Hall, Life Member and President of Ivanhoe Harriers (1985-1997; 2000-2006), passed away on 25 June 2006. At the Club’s 2007 AGM and presentation night on 12 May, we were delighted to have in attendance, Barbara Hall, her daughter, Natalie, and son, Rod. Natalie made the inaugural presentation of the "Lew Hall Trophy" to Glen Nicholson.

The Club has been fortunate to have some highly rated and very committed coaches. We celebrated John Boas’ 50 years with Ivanhoe Harriers on Sunday 24 November 2007 at Willinda Park. The luncheon included some insightful and very honest tributes to John’s dedication to athletics, coaching and to Ivanhoe Harriers. The speaking list included three of John’s former athletes: Ian Campbell (Triple Jump, 1980 Moscow Olympics); Gary Honey (Long Jump, 1980 Moscow, 1984 Los Angeles & 1988 Seoul Olympics); and Tim Erickson (Walks, 1978 Edmonton & 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games); plus Tom Hancock (our throws coach, who has an outstanding record of athletics achievement and service).
The current coaching panel is a key strength of the Club and includes: John Boas (Level 5), Tom Hancock (Level 5), Peter Rule (Level 4), and Patricia Rogers (Level 2).

Rob Craigie - Club President