Gerald Hutchings – Athlete

Inducted November 16, 1991

Between 1939 and 1950 “Hutch”, as he was familiarly known locally, established five new track and field records in Junior A.A.A. Championship Competition. His records were for: half mile, hop, step and jump, the 440, the broad jump and the junior club relay race.

It is estimated that during his sporting career “Hutch” won close to 250 medals and a score of trophies in various sporting activities, particularly in track and field.

“Hutch” was born on Bell Island on December 19, 1923. When he was growing up, people who knew him predicted that someday he would be an outstanding athlete. “Hutch” was fast, rough, competitive and good natured and had all the attributes of becoming a brilliant athlete.

On August 16, 1939 at the age of 16, “Hutch” won the 880 yard race in his first try at A.A.A. Junior Championship competition.

During the 20th. Annual A.A.A. Junior Championships held on August 28, 1940 “Hutch” placed as follows: first place in 880 yards, first place in one mile, first place in hop, step and jump, second place in 440 yards and second place in broad jump.

At the 21st. Annual Newfoundland A.A.A. sports held on August 1941, “Hutch” established a record for winning the most events in a single track and field meet in Newfoundland. He won an unbelievable first place in eight junior events. “Hutch” is the only Newfoundlander to chalk up so many victories in one meet and this record has never been equalled. “Hutch” placed as follows: first place in 220 yards, first place in 440 yards, first place in 880 yards, first place in one mile, first place in pole vault, first place in broad jump, first place in hop, step and jump, first place in Bell Island Junior Club Relay Race.

On August 15, 1947, “Hutch” placed in three events in Senior A.A.A. Championships Competition: first place in broad jump, second place in hop, step and jump and third place in pole vault.

In his final year in senior competition 1950, at the age of 27, “Hutch” placed in two events: first place in javelin throw and second place in broad jump.