Extremely impressive success in track and field had Gerry Halley elected to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame.
Regarded as the fastest runner of his time, he utilized his speed to enjoy considerable success in soccer and baseball and participated in the St. John’s Regatta. It was primely as a great sprinter that he established himself among the finest athletes Newfoundland ever produced.
His exceptional ability in the 100-yards dash, the 220-yards dash and the 440-yards run gained Gerry Halley a berth on the Newfoundland team that participated in the 1930 British Empire Games. Competing against some of the world’s top sprinters, he was not out of place and impressed many Games officials.
A member of a renowned athletic family, during the 1920’s and the early 1930’s, when a large number of annual track meets were held, he completely dominated the three dashes locally. Continuously setting records for the three distances, he was also extremely effective as the anchorman for a St. Bon’s relay team that won numerous races.
The only other Newfoundlander to break ten seconds for 100 yards is fellow Hall of Famer Dave Carroll.
His speed was a major factor when he performed for several B.I.S. teams that emerged as St. John’s senior soccer champions. It was equally important when he joined the St. John’s championship Cubs senior baseball team.
At the St. John’s Regatta, Gerry Halley rowed with several St. Bon’s and B.I.S. crews in winning efforts.
An easy-going individual, he was a model of sportsmanship who enjoyed excellent rapport with officials and fans alike. He was very popular with team-mates and opponents.
In recognition of a brilliant running career, Gerry Halley was inducted into the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame April 24, 1976.
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