THERE cannot be too many churchwardens who have taken part in the Island Games over its 40 years, but Isle of Wight athletics coach Deborah Percy will be heading to Orkney as a track official.
"I’m honoured to have been invited to join the officiating team for the 2025 Island Games in Orkney, serving as a 'starter' — the official responsible for starting races — a role I’ve proudly held at international level," said Deborah, of Bonchurch.
Her journey in athletics began in her youth as a junior sprinter for Great Britain.
After raising her children, Deborah re-entered the sport through coaching and officiating.
She now coaches sprints across both mainstream athletics and Special Olympics and Sporting Opportunities.
Her son, Nick Percy, is an international discus thrower based on the Island, and a multi-Scottish record holder who represented Great Britain at the Paris Olympics last year.
He also has a strong connection to the Island Games, having won discus gold in Gibraltar in 2019.
"My officiating journey began out of necessity," adds Deborah.
"Living on an island, we often face shortages of qualified officials, so I stepped in — initially just to help, but soon discovered a deep passion for it.
"Since then, I’ve become a versatile official — working across start lines, track and field events.
"This flexibility is essential when organising meets on the Island, where resources can be limited."
As well as her involvement in sport, Deborah serves as a churchwarden for St Boniface Churches in Bonchurch.
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"Being of service — whether in sport or in my village — is something I hold close to my heart," she said.
Her role as an official has taken her across the country, from local disability meets and wheelchair races to national championships.
She has officiated at previous Island Games on the Isle of Wight, as well as in Jersey and Guernsey.
"These Island Games are more than just a sporting competition — they are a vital stepping stone for many athletes, as they prepare to enter the international arena," Deborah said.
"I am thankful for this opportunity.
"I’m thrilled to be part of this celebration of island sport and community."
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