Dick Wilson was partly responsible for the hiring of Kansas University’s track and field and cross country coach, so a hug was inevitable.
Stanley Redwine, hired this spring from Tulsa University, helped out during the medals ceremony of the Sunflower State Games road races Sunday at KU’s Memorial Stadium. Dressed in a blue KU shirt and jeans, he handed out medallions to each medalist.
During a brief break in the festivities, Wilson was cited by the public address announcer for his accomplishments at Kansas and being part of the nine-person committee that hired Redwine. Then, it was Redwine’s turn, as the PA announcer welcomed the new coach to Lawrence.
Wilson, a jovial man, wrapped his arms around Redwine and the crowd showered him with cheers.
“I’m very excited that Stanley is here,” Wilson said. “I really believe he can return this program to the national level it once was at.”
If anybody would know, it’s Wilson. At Kansas, he was part of one of the finest eras of track and field. His four-year career included four conference (Big Seven) championships, a runner-up finish at the NCAA meet in 1951 and a national championship in 1953.
“When we were interviewing Stanley, I saw the same characteristics in him as I saw in the coach (Bill Easton) who brought me to Kansas from New York,” Wilson said. “I think he will be able to convince kids that they can come here and be very successful.”
Wilson was already scheduled to participate in the Sunflower games. At 68 years old, Wilson ran the Men’s 10K in 44:25. He is a yearly organizer of the event, but this year he thought it would be fun to have some help handing out the awards.
“Dick called me,” Redwine said, “and I was really honored to be asked to participate.”
So Redwine woke up early, shook hands and listened as many medalists paused to offer words of encouragement. After most had left, Redwine stopped to talk to a few high school coaches and young runners.
“This is a great event for me to be at,” Redwine said, “and to get the word out on what we’re trying to do at Kansas. I saw a lot of great runners out here today, young and old.”
About Wilson, Redwine is unsure of one thing — who would win if they raced.
“Dick ran very well,” Redwine said. “I’d be a little afraid he might embarrass me.”
