Steve, one of a family of 20 children and originally from Armoy didn’t commence his competitive running career until the age of 24. He was a prominent member of East Antrim Harriers in Ballyclare where for many years he cycled from Armoy to train, a round trip of 75 miles. Steve held the Northern Ireland Senior Cross Country record for six years and the Irish Senior Cross Country record for four years.

In addition he has held almost every Irish record between 2 – 10 miles. The pinnacle of his career was representing Great Britain in the 1948 Olympics in London where he was awarded the Bronze medal in the 10,000 metres track event.