James (Jim) Hay, from Waipukurau in the Hawkes Bay, gained his DipPhEd in 1956, an MA from the University of Iowa in 1965, and his PhD from the same institution in 1967. It was the beginning of a highly distinguished academic career which saw Dr Hay teach at the School of Physical Education from 196771 before moving back to the University of Iowa. He gained a full professorship in 1978, and was appointed Emeritus Professor on his retirement in 1998. He was appointed a Research Professor at the University of Auckland in 1999, before his early death in Mt Maunganui in 2002 at the age of 65.
A world renowned scholar in biomechanics, Dr Hay's work was acknowledged and respected internationally, and his acclaimed text, The Biomechanics of Sport Techniques was first published in 1973. The author of 144 published papers and chapters, Dr Hay also authored or edited 10 books.
Dr Hay received numerous honours, including President and Honorary Member of the International Society of Biomechanics, President and Emeritus Member of the American Society of Biomechanics, a member of the Olympic Academy of Science, and numerous journal editorships and membership of editorial boards.