Vale Stephen Jackson

Athletics Australia is saddened to report the passing yesterday (26 February) of Stephen Jackson - a respected member of its Panel of International Technical Officials as a Road Race Course Measurer. Stephen did not recover from injuries as a result of a motor vehicle accident whilst returning home after the National 100km Road Running Championships on a course he had measured to international standards in his meticulous manner last December.

Stephen was a proud and passionate resident of Bathurst. Recently retired, he had worked until mid-2023 for the previous decade as a CEO in healthcare and IT space.

He was pivotal in his role as the LOC Regional Manager for the World Athletics Cross Country Championships - Bathurst 2023. His contacts, knowledge and skills were crucial in the delivery of the event. Stephen was also the course director for the marathon events at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. His impact on the grassroots running scene were immense including through roles with Sydney Striders, parkrun Australia and as co-event director of his beloved parkrun Bathurst.

"Our LOC team are all shocked and saddened by the passing of Stephen. He formed an integral part of WXC Bathurst LOC. There wasn't anything he couldn't find in Bathurst that we needed, people, machinery or ideas.

"Our thoughts are with his wife Jenn, his family and the broader Bathurst running community. He will be sorely missed at the local parkrun and of course as the Race Director of the Panorama Punish," General Manager of the World Athletics Cross Country Bathurst 23, Richard Welsh said.

Stephen had since been studying, organising events and travelling extensively. His work had taken him all over the world - living in diverse places in Asia, Europe and North America. Stephen reflected upon his life journey often, and in particular his work in Timor-Leste for which was acknowledged with the Medalha Solidariedade which was presented by the country’s President at the time - José Ramos-Horta.

Stephen adored his family, partner - Jenn four children, four grandchildren and his dog. Stephen recently reflected that he “had been involved in athletics - the non- track variety, ever since he ran with Deek in Canberra a long time ago."

The Australian Athletics Family extends its condolences to Stephen’s family – in particular Jenn who remains in hospital following the accident.

By Brian Roe, Athletics Australia
Posted: 27/3/2024