The Hartford Courant has reported that New Britain track coach Irv Black, who led the school to 28 state titles in track and cross country from 1953-1988 has died after a battle with cancer. He was 79.

Black is responsible for many things in high school track. If you ever wondered who started using timers in the state, it was Black.

Who pushed for the heptathlon, pentathlon, steeplechase and hammer throw in high school sports in this state? It was Black.

Here's a link to the story in the Courant.