The building of local sports groups and the making it possible for Newfoundland athletes to travel to mainland competition by Henry Wyatt were the reasons he was elected to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame. Working mainly within the Guards Athlete Association, he made many varied contributions to the local sporting community during the early stages of the 1900´s.
President of the Guards Athletic Association for 15 years in the 1920´s and 1930´s, he played a major role generating the funds that allowed the Guards to purchase the Prince´s Rink and he was very instrumental in arranging boxing matches and races between runners from outside and locals.
During a period when funds for sports were very scarce, the public and various companies were the main source of money. Henry Wyatt was one of the best fund raisers that sports had and it was mainly through his efforts that Newfoundland star athletes like Grant Burnell and Ron O´Toole were able to compete outside of the Island.
In addition, it was his leadership and organizing ability that had sports excursions for St. John´s athletes to Bay Roberts, Grand Falls and Corner Brook. This type of inter-town competition was an excellent foundation for the establishment of provincial sports organizations. They also increased greatly the general interest in sport, especially outside of the St. John´s area.
In a time when the Newfoundland economy was not in great condition, Henry Wyatt´s contribution to sports was considerable. His efforts were extremely important in a wide range of athletic programs and competitions.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to sport, especially in the St. John´s area, Henry Wyatt was inducted into the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame November 14, 2004.
Copyright © NLAA 2024