Harry Tarraway

Although born in Southport, Harry Tarraway moved to Cornwall as a youngster and was educated at Falmouth Grammar School before going to Southampton University. A fine middle-distance runner, he won the 800 metres at the 1947 International University Games at Paris, in which the 1952 Olympic 1500 metres champion, Josy Barthel, finished third. At the 1948 Olympics, Tarraway qualified for the 800 semi-final from a very closely contested heat, but did not finish in the semi- after being tripped. His best finish at the AAAs was in 1949, when he was fourth in the 880 yards but, that year, he was the Southern Counties champion. After University, Tarraway attended Loughborough College and then became a teacher at Bryanston School, Dorset, and eventually became director of physical education. During his time at the school, he developed the talents of Zambian Olympic high jumper Mutale Mulenga.

Personal Best: 800 – 1:53.2y (1949).