Dear Editor,
Guyana’s legendary one-legged race walk champion is no longer with us. The champion physically fit, disciplined France died after a brief period of illness. However, his heroic distance walks will remain a legacy for people with disabilities.
France’s bravery and courage along with his admirable fitness enabled him to get his name in the prestigious Guinness Book of World Records. France’s achievements were recognized nationally and internationally. He was the recipient of a National Award from the PPP/C Government and he was a very fond and joyous person as he would talk about the Medal of Service award he received. He also received a Dr. Walter Rodney special award.
William the ‘Conqueror’ was indeed the champion walker in Guyana. However, the “iconic” Guyanese Marathon Walker performed successfully at the prestigious, New York Marathon, Boston Marathon and the London Marathon. William France was very pro-active in organizing the Terry Fox Run in Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.
France, participated in all the “Walk”, events that were organized in this country for more than two decades. Significantly, he was a friend and great admirer of former President Dr. Cheddi Jagan and President Janet Jagan. France, was an organizer and participant in the annual Cheddi Jagan fitness Walk at the National Park. He was the proud leader among people with disabilities.
France, was a very social person and enjoyed an excellent relationship with people of all walks of life. Leslie Black, who managed France, on many occasions when he was a pro-active participant in international events spoke glowingly about his friend William France. He was a source of inspiration to athletes with disabilities. He was a man of integrity. Sponsors, were willing to support his activities because he was a clean and accountable person.
He will go down in history as an amputee walker and his indomitable, passionate spirit will be a source of inspiration to physically challenged persons.
May our son of the soil rest in eternal peace.
Yours faithfully,
Neil Kumar
