THE sporting world has bid farewell to a veteran athlete who dedicated more than 60 years to track and field.
Ajit Singh Kalirai MBE died aged 80 last month, with his wife Kuldip Kaur and four children by his side.
He will be remembered for setting more than 10 Great British records for long jump and triple jump while a member of the British Masters Athletic Association.
Mr Kalirai was also unbeaten in his age group for long jump, triple jump and 60 metres sprint and set two new records in February this year.
The grandfather of nine was also the first Asian to be awarded an MBE for services to athletics in 2002.
In a fitting tribute to the sporting hero, Mr Kalirai was brought in a hearse around his training ground, Perivale Park Athletics Track, for one last time. His family and friends followed behind during the lap of honour.
Paying tribute to his father's outstanding achievements, Mr Kalirai's youngest son, Suki, said: "He was an outstanding athlete and amazing father. I think his drive and determination coupled with his humility and simple approach to life will always remain an inspiration to all who came into contact with him.
"His physical strength was of a person 20 years younger than him.
"He always said if you had your health and excelled in education you would do well in life - and he did."
Growing up in India Mr Kalirai enjoyed athletics, played football and was also crowned All India University Wrestling Champion.
In 1964 he moved with his wife to Fernbank Avenue in Sudbury Hill where the couple lived with their children, Surinder, Sukhwinder,
