George’s life has been dedicated to sport and fitness. It all began at age 16, with a scholarship to study judo at Nihon University, Japan. From a highly successful career as a judo competitor – including becoming British and European champion – George progressed to positions as British team captain, international referee, national trainer and Olympic coach. He holds a ninth dan in judo, and the only coach in Britain to have trained a double Olympic champion.
George has chaired the British Judo Association and held office on the Olympic Committee, written three books, and had his own TV programme. He ran the Edinburgh Club for over 35 years, and has always stayed at the sharp end of the health and fitness industry. He was elected to the Scottish Sports Hall of Fame in 2003. Asked by his friend Charlie Miller what he thought The Club was, George replied: "A spiritual centre of fitness."