Lachie Stewart, Scottish Running ‌Legend, Dies at 81

Updated june 01, 2025
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Lachie Stewart, the celebrated Scottish distance runner and Commonwealth Games champion, has died at the age of 81. Stewart, who secured a 10,000m gold medal for Scotland at the 1970 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, also competed for Great⁣ Britain in the 1972 Munich Olympics. His passing occurred in a Paisley hospital following a brief illness, according to Scottish Athletics.

Born⁢ joseph ⁤Laughlin Stewart in Alexandria in 1943, Stewart balanced his athletic career with ⁢his profession as a dental mechanic. His achievements were recognized in 2018 when he was inducted into the Scottish Athletics’ hall of fame. The organization conveyed its condolences​ to Stewart’s family and friends, acknowledging his significant impact on the sport.

In 2020, Stewart underwent a leg amputation due to‍ complications ‌from diabetes. Despite this challenge, the⁢ Scottish running legend maintained a positive outlook.

“I had‍ an ulcer between my second and‌ third toe and it didn’t seem to heal too well,”‍ Stewart told BBC Scotland.”Sport makes you more determined. I don’t have any hang-ups about losing the leg.”

What’s next

Stewart’s legacy as a Scottish running legend and Commonwealth champion will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.