George Morphy

George Morphy
Personal information
NationalityIrish
Born20 April 1884
Dublin, Ireland
Died14 April 1946 (aged 61)
Burwash, England
Sport
SportAthletics
Eventmiddle-distance
ClubDublin University AC

George Newcomen Morphy (20 April 1884 – 14 April 1946) was an Irish solicitor and athlete, notable for his success in running and cycling. He competed for Great Britain at the 1908 Summer Olympics.[1][2]

Biography

Morphy was born in Dublin, Ireland, and educated at Portora Royal School, Enniskillen before entering Trinity College, Dublin in 1902, graduating in 1907 with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree. As a student, he specialised in running the 440 yards, 880 yards and one mile races. In 1905, he set an Irish record in cycle racing, with a time of 1:56.8 in the 880 yards dash.[3]

He then became a solicitor but continued his athletic career. Morphy represented Great Britain at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London. In the 800 metres, Morphy finished third in his semifinal heat and did not advance to the final. He won seven national titles in Irish athletics competitions between 1908 and 1910.[3]

During World War I, Morphy served in the Royal Army Service Corps from 1914 to 1920, rising to the rank of captain.[3]

He died in Burwash, East Sussex.[1]

References

  1. ^ a b "Biographical Information". Olympedia. Retrieved 10 April 2025.
  2. ^ "The Olympic Games, British Representatives". The Sportsman. 12 June 1908. Retrieved 10 April 2025 – via British Newspaper Archive.
  3. ^ a b c "Trinity Olympians – George Morphy" (PDF). Trinity College Dublin Sports Centre. Retrieved 8 January 2017.

Sources