The University of Cambridge Sports Centre is saddened to hear that Dr John Marks recently passed away, aged 92. It is a huge loss to the University as he has given so much to so many people over many decades.

In 1977, Dr Marks was admitted as one of the first male Fellows at Girton College, shortly after the College announced that they were going to have a mixed foundation. He was a lecturer and Director of Studies in Medicine at Girton from 1977-1991;  but that is the tip of the iceberg! He had numerous roles in the College and the University and his unfailing enthusiasm for cricket, rowing and sports in general helped shaped Girton’s special brand of educational excellence. Before his academic career, Dr Marks had several senior and consultant medical research and administrative posts which included the roles, serially, of  Research, Marketing Director and  CEO of the British and Commonwealth office of a major foreign international company.

Dr Marks was heavily involved in University sports. Being an active sportsman himself, he also was a member, Senior Treasurer, President, Chair and even Coach of many of the rugby, hockey, cricket, squash, football and sailing teams and clubs at Cambridge. However, his greatest passion was for the Boat Club. He was closely involved in and responsible for the men’s and women’s boat races for Girton College and the University of Cambridge.

In 2013, the College was pleased to open the John Marks Pavilion, adjacent to the cricket pitch, where over 800 donors had contributed to the project. Dr Marks said at the opening, he was delighted and honoured that the pavilion bears his name. He continued “sport has been, and continues to be an important part of my life and I hope Girtonians for generations to come benefit from this wonderful resource.".

Dr Marks will be remembered by all as a remarkable scholar, inspiring mentor and warm friend. Further details will follow on Girton’s plans to mark his passing and pay tribute to his life.