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The following tribute to late Trinidad and Tobago sprinter Mike Agostini was submitted on Saturday May 14 by the National Association of Athletics Administrations of Trinidad and Tobago (NAAATT):
(Copyright Speedendurance.com)
The National Association of Athletics Administrations of Trinidad and Tobago (NAAATT) wishes to extend deepest condolences to the relatives and friends of the late Michael “Mike” Agostini, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 81.
“Mike”, as he was fondly called, dominated the 100 metre and 100 yards events locally during the 1950s and represented our country with great distinction. The following are among his major accomplishments:
- 1954 British Empire and Commonwealth Games -1st in the 100 yards in a time of 9.6 seconds, at just 19 years of age, beating Lindy Remigino, the then Olympic sprint champion on an indoor track and smashing a 30-year-old world record, running in jogging shoes
- 1955 Pan American Games 2nd in the 100 metres – 3rd in the 200 metres
- 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games – 3rd in the 100 yards
- 1959 Pan American Games – 2nd in the 100 metres, 3rd in the 200 metres and 3rd in the 4×100 metres relay with Cliff Bertrand, Wilton Jackson and Dennis Johnson
Although resident abroad for decades, Mike kept in touch with the sport in Trinidad and Tobago and was always willing to assist and to share advice with those who sought his counsel.
His memory and accomplishments will live on, as years ago, he sponsored two (2) major trophies—The Mike Agostini Challenge Trophies—which are presented at NAAA’s Annual Awards Ceremony to the Champion Club (Senior) and Champion Club (Junior) respectively.
Editor’s Note: The NAAA’s General Council met on Sunday and a moment’s silence was observed in honour of this athletics stalwart.
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We are the same age I remember as youngsters, we girls admired him not only for his athletic prowess, but for his “handsome” face
I guess better late than never eh!
Agreed
Nice to know they are giving him his long overdue recognition. RIP Mike. Family, Friend and Mentor.
R.I.P.
Rest In Paradise Mr. Agostini!!!
My first track coach, the late Hubert Francis (CIC & Hampton Athletic Club) shared Mike Agostini’s career with my track mates quite often. May he rest peacefully.
Francis taught me at CIC. I can’t even remember what subject now. Lol. Form Two. I do know that he spoke about his time with Hasely Crawford long and often. 🙂
Lasana Liburd I think he was versed in French among other subjects. He loved track and field very much. I visited him quite a few times in CIC while classes were in session.
My Form Two French teacher was the inimitable Mr Rostant. Lol. So he didn’t teach me French. Maybe it was English. But he was a nice guy.
Remember, Shamateurism and his role in bringing it out in the open?