Aspiring Athletics Club (AAC) head coach Michael Beable has been recognised for his “outstanding impact” on athletics in Otago.

Michael was awarded the Norrie Jefferson Trophy for contribution to coaching at the recent Athletics Otago awards ceremony.

The organisation said Michael is “a true mentor and leader” who has made “an outstanding impact on athletics coaching, guiding 21 athletes over the past year”.

Most of his squad come from Wānaka and are members of the AAC, but a few are pursuing university studies in Christchurch, Dunedin, and Auckland.

“Michael has been instrumental in bridging the gap between junior and senior ranks, welcoming younger athletes (ages 10-13) into his training group to ensure a strong future for the sport,” Athletics Otago said. 

“Michael’s dedication to his athletes is shaping the future of athletics in Otago.”

Michael’s athletes have had a phenomenal season, with standout performances including Shay Veitch, who won gold in the senior men’s long jump and 200m at the NZ Track & Field Champs, and a personal best in the 100m at Potts Classic.

Michael also coaches Phoebe Laker, who has had a record-breaking season, shattering 18 Otago records in the 200m and 400m, including a 36-year-old record.

Read more: Phoebe Laker: record breaker

“It's a real honour to receive this recognition from the athletics fraternity in Otago,” Michael told the Wānaka App.

“It is so gratifying to see that the value I can add is appreciated, with Barbara’s [his wife] support, not only to develop athletics in Wānaka and beyond, but also to improve the standards to national and international level.”

Michael has previously been named Coach of the Year by Athletics Otago, in 2021 and 2023. He also won the Athletics New Zealand Arthur Eustace Award for Coaching (2022/23).