The Armory Loses A Master (Updated)

Louis Vazquez, Jr. — a Masters USATF Official who officiated in the region for more than 30 years — has passed away.

The honorary referee for the New Balance Indoor Nationals in its 2011 Armory debut, Mr. Vazquez was the recipient of a host of awards as an official for youth, collegiate, open and masters events. A member of the Catholic High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame, Mr. Vazquez made track & field a family tradition. His son Louis III — who serves as Director of Sports at Icahn Stadium and Randall's Island — continues to serve as a meet director here at The Armory.

"Lou was one of the true greats of our sport," said Dr. Norbert Sander, the Executive Director of The Armory Foundation. "We will dearly miss his unbending dedication to all of those young and old who compete in track and field."

In his career, Mr. Vazquez officiating a variety of championship meets, including New York States and the Empire State Games as well as public, Catholic and private school championships in the City. He was given the highest award for an official in the Metropolitan Athletic Congress — the Howard Schmertz Award — in 1995. He would serve as the chairman of the MAC.

When Mr. Vazquez wasn't trackside for a meet, he worked as an engineer for the City of New York, a position he'd hold for 42 years. A graduate of the Manhattan High School of Aviation Trades, he received an accounting degree from Brooklyn College and a master's from the Pratt Institute.

The Vazquez family invites all of you to remember Louis at the services at Aievola's Funeral Home (1275 65th Street in Brooklyn) this weekend:

Monday's mass will begin at 10:30 am at the Holy Spirit Church (1712 45th Street, near 17th Avenue, in Brooklyn).

The Vazquez family has chosen to ask that charitable donations be made, in lieu of flowers. In consideration of Mr. Vazquez's commitment to track and field, especially for youth, the family asks that you make a donation to the Prospect Park Youth Running Club, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit (Tax ID#27-2124967). Mr. Vazquez's family has been involved with this community organization since it's inception in 2009, including his grandson (Lou), son (Louis) and daughter-in-law (Ann). In September, his other two grandsons — Michael and Christopher — may become members for the first time. The program has allowed children from NYC to learn about the sport, compete and travel throughout the United States. If you would like to make a donation in Mr. Vazquez's name, please make checks payable to PPYRC and mail to PPYRC (317 Greenwood Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11218).

All donations will go directly to fund the children's track program and will remain at the full discretion of the Vazquez family.