487506499_9865532670165287_2068038114677467728_n

Lions Honour Record-Breaking Season at 2025 Awards Banquet

by Clublinkinbio

Saturday night, under the lights of the Terry Fox Athletic Facility, provided an excellent opportunity to celebrate the many successes of the past year. From record-breaking sprints to dominant throws and championship-winning jumps, the evening highlighted both the club’s veteran stars and its next generation of rising talents.

Gale, Gyamfi, Jeggo, and Fraser Take Top Honours

The prestigious Gilbert Awards, presented annually to the club’s top athletes in track and field, once again showcased the Lions’ breadth of talent.

Lauren Gale, Canada’s premier 400-metre runner, earned Female Athlete of the Year (Track) for the fourth straight season. A multiple-time member of the national team in 2025, Gale helped Canada qualify both the mixed and women’s 4×400-metre relays to the World Athletics Championships, helping set a new national record in the mixed event. The Colorado State University graduate also earned a spot on her second World Championship team (Eugene 2022) after placing fourth over 400 metres at the Canadian Championships.

Jessica Gyamfi claimed her second straight Female Athlete of the Year (Field) award. The University of Ottawa nursing student enjoyed a breakthrough 2025 season highlighted by her first national team appointment and a bronze medal for Team Ontario in the shot put at the Canada Summer Games. After being named the University of Ottawa’s Female Athlete of the Year, Gyamfi capped her collegiate season by representing Canada at the World University Games in Germany. She also earned gold in discus at the Athletics Ontario Championships and produced a pair of top-five finishes at the Canadian Championships.

Zach Jeggo was named Male Athlete of the Year (Track) after a season that established him as one of the brightest young stars in Canadian athletics. The U20 standout won national gold in the 400-metre hurdles and bronze in the 400 metres, while anchoring the Lions’ U20 4×400-metre team to multiple Canadian club records. A first-year student at Simon Fraser University, Jeggo capped his summer with gold in the Canada Summer Games 4×400 relay and an individual silver in the 400 metres.

Connor Fraser earned Male Athlete of the Year (Field) for the second consecutive season following another strong year as one of Canada’s top discus throwers. The Carleton University student claimed silver at both the Canadian Championships and Canada Summer Games, added provincial gold in discus, and earned bronze in shot put at the Athletics Ontario Championships.

Rising Stars Shine

This year’s banquet also celebrated the future of the sport, with outstanding performers recognized in the U20, U18, and U16 divisions.

In the U20 division, Daniel Cova delivered one of the year’s most memorable performances. The Iona University student thrilled the home crowd at the Canadian Championships by dropping 40 seconds off his personal best in the 5,000 metres, earning silver in 14:24.12 — the second-fastest mark in club history. He also added a bronze medal in the 1,500 metres.On the women’s side, Jorai Oppong-Nketiah continued her rise as Canada’s next sprint star, sweeping the 100 and 200 metres at the national U20 championships.

Among U18 athletes, Eli Mordel etched his name into the Lions record books with club-best performances in both the 60 and 110-metre hurdles at the Canadian Indoor and Outdoor Championships. The Sir Robert Borden student also earned bronze in the pole vault at the Canadian Indoor U18 Championships. In her first season with the club, Ellie McGregor impressed with No. 4 all-time U18 marks in both the 600 and 800 metres. She finished the season ranked seventh nationally and contributed to the Lions’ 4×400-metre bronze at the Canadian U20 Championships.

At the U16 level, Maxime Cazabon dominated the jumps, winning national titles in both high jump and triple jump while setting a new club record in the latter. He also ranked among the nation’s best sprinters, setting a club record in the 60 metres and moving to No. 3 all-time over 100 metres before a hamstring injury sidelined his sprinting season. Alexandra Harris excelled on the endurance front, cracking the club’s all-time top 10 in the 3,000 metres at No. 9 and posting the 12th-best performance ever over 1,500 metres.

Masters and Specialty Awards

The club’s long-standing tradition of excellence extended well beyond youth and open competition.

In the Masters category, Wendy Alexis once again proved ageless, breaking world records in the W70 100 metres and indoor 200 metres while sweeping national and provincial titles. On the men’s side, J-Angelo Beraldin collected six national medals across the throws, including silver in shot put and bronzes in discus, hammer, javelin, weight throw, and the throws pentathlon.

On the cross-country front, Daniel Cova capped his remarkable season by being named top male following his OFSAA title and a team bronze with the U18 boys at the Canadian Championships. Salome Nyirarukundo earned top female honours after placing eighth at the Canadian Championships.

In combined events, Kyle London climbed to No. 3 all-time in the club’s U20 heptathlon rankings and claimed national silver despite a no-height in pole vault. Vienna Courteau finished top-eight at the USports Championships in the pentathlon and cracked the club’s all-time list.

Continuing a Legacy

This year’s awards banquet showcased not only the Lions’ leading performers but also the next generation beginning to make their mark. From national medals to club records, the season underlined the club’s continued strength across all levels of competition.

The club congratulates all 2025 award recipients for their extraordinary accomplishments and looks forward to another season of excellence in 2026.

IMG_3177

Lions Set to Celebrate a Record-Breaking Season at Annual Awards Banquet

by Clublinkinbio

Under the glow of the Terry Fox Athletic Facility lights, Ottawa Lions athletes and supporters will trade spandex and spikes for semi-formal attire next Saturday, September 13, as the club hosts its annual Awards Banquet to celebrate a remarkable season.

Among the feats to recognize this year are accomplishments that stretched from grassroots participation to the world stage. Membership grew to more than 1,600 athletes of all ages, while the Club hosted 26 competitions — highlighted by the return of the Canadian Championships to the Terry Fox Athletic Facility.

In total, Lions athletes brought home a total of 5 international medals, 71 national medals and 80 provincial medals, highlighted by U20 and Open team titles at the Ontario Championships. Along the way, two national club records and six masters world records were set, while 27 new age-class marks were added to the club’s all-time lists.

Honouring International Excellence

Among the highlights of the evening will be the presentation of the President’s Awards, given annually to those who have represented Canada internationally or competed at the Canada Summer Games. This year’s honourees include:

Coaches / IST

  • Glenroy Gilbert – World Indoor, World Relays, NACAC, World Outdoor Championships
  • Leslie Estwick – NACAC Championships
  • Sultana Frizell (IST) – Pan Am Junior Games
  • Gordon Cavé – Pan Am Junior Games
  • Amanda Fader – Canada Summer Games

Athletes

  • Lauren Gale – World Relays, NACAC, World Outdoor Championships
  • Maëliss Trapeau – World Outdoor Championships
  • Jessica Gyamfi – FISU Games, Canada Summer Games
  • David Moulongou – FISU Games
  • Doyin Ogunremi – FISU Games
  • Liam Davis – Canada Summer Games
  • Zachary Jeggo – Canada Summer Games
  • Connor Fraser – Canada Summer Games

These individuals embody the Lions’ tradition of excellence and will be recognized alongside club MVPs, volunteers, and officials who have made an impact throughout the season.

Event Details

Celebrations begin with cocktails at 5:00 p.m., followed by dinner, awards, and speeches starting at 6:30 p.m., with the program expected to wrap up around 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are $35 per person, and are on sale on Trackie until Wednesday, September 10 at 11:59 p.m. Guests can choose from grilled chicken, salmon, or a vegetarian entrée, each served with salad, rice, vegetables, and bread. Dietary restrictions may be shared during registration to ensure everyone enjoys the evening meal. Non-alcoholic beverages will be included, while wine and beer will be available for purchase.

Guests are encouraged to dress in business or cocktail attire for this semi-formal occasion. With the banquet taking place outdoors under canvas tents, complete with walls and heaters, attendees should be prepared for early fall weather, which can dip into the low teens.

(Ottawa, Canada---12 June 2024) Youth Program athletes competing at Ottawa Summer Twilight Meet #2 at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility. Copyright 2024 Miles Ryan Rowat / Mundo Sport Images. If posting to social media please tag @mundosportimages

Countdown to Summer: Lions Track and Field Camps Return June 30

by Clublinkinbio

With just one week to go until the start of our 2025 Summer Camp season, excitement is building at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility. Registration continues to exceed pre-pandemic levels, and we’re thrilled to welcome back so many familiar faces—along with plenty of new ones. Weekly spots remain open until the Thursday before each camp session, so there’s still time to join the fun.

From June 30 through August 22, the Ottawa Lions will once again offer our popular youth track and field camps in both half-day and full-day formats. Morning sessions run from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with the full-day camp extending to 4:00 p.m. after a supervised lunch break. For those looking for an afternoon-only option, we’ve got you covered from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Back by popular demand is our Foundation Summer Camp, geared specifically toward athletes aged 12 to 14. Whether you’re an annual club member or brand new to the sport, this program is designed to challenge participants and help them take the next step in their athletic journey. Many campers go on to compete in local and provincial competitions—and most importantly, have a great time doing it.

This summer is particularly special as Ottawa plays host to the 2025 Canadian Track and Field Championships, with Canada’s top athletes aiming to secure their spots for the World Championships in Tokyo. With so much national attention on the sport, our camps offer a unique opportunity for young athletes to be part of something bigger and experience the energy of championship season firsthand.

If you have questions or need more information, reach out to us at info@ottawalions.com or tnedow@ottawalions.com.

We can’t wait to see you at the track!

Terry-Fox-Aerial_1440

Outdoor Season Blooms as Lions Return to the Terry Fox Athletic Facility

by Clublinkinbio

With snow now a memory (hopefully) and temperatures steadily rising, the Ottawa Lions are ready to transition from fluorescent-lit spaces to the open skies of the Terry Fox Athletic Facility. The first outdoor training sessions of the season kick off Monday, April 14, marking not only a return to our home track but the beginning of an exciting spring and summer of athletics.

While the indoor season brought personal bests and podium performances, it’s the outdoor calendar that truly showcases the full spirit and scale of track and field in the capital. Whether you’re chasing an OFSAA berth, sharpening your skills ahead of the national stage, or stepping onto the track for the first time, there’s something for everyone this spring.

It’s Not Too Late to Join the Action

If you’re looking to get involved, registration is still open for all spring and summer programming. From grassroots to high-performance training, the Lions offer programs for athletes of all ages and abilities. Full program details can be found at ottawalions.com/programs, and registration links are available at ottawalions.com/registration.

OFSAA Season on the Horizon

For high school athletes, the Lions will again play a central role in the Road to OFSAA. This year’s competitive lead-up begins with the Carleton Raven Relays on April 24, continues with the two-day uOttawa High School Invitational on May 1–2, and concludes with the marquee National Capital High School Classic on May 8–9.

Athletes hoping to take the next step in their high school season are encouraged to join our OFSAA Prep programs, tailored specifically for both power/speed and endurance athletes:

A Packed Summer Schedule Ahead

The action won’t slow down after the school season. The Lions will launch the outdoor competitive season with the Spring Kick Start Meet on May 10–11, followed by the return of the Twilight Meet Series, now in its 38th year. These weekly Wednesday night meets offer accessible and high-quality competition throughout the summer, with a total of nine meets scheduled to begin June 4.

Capping off the season, Ottawa will welcome the nation’s best when it hosts the 2025 Canadian Track and Field Championships, taking place July 30 to August 3 at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility. It promises to be a showcase of Canadian athletics at its finest, and another moment for local fans and athletes to witness greatness on home soil.

eMRR_0322_web

From Eganville to the Olympics: Bishop-Nriagu to Join Hall of Fame

by Clublinkinbio

The Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club is proud to celebrate one of its most accomplished members, Melissa Bishop-Nriagu, who has been announced as one of five inductees to the Athletics Ontario Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Canadian record holder and three-time Olympian, Bishop-Nriagu’s induction honours a career defined by excellence, perseverance, and an enduring connection to the communities that helped shape her.

“I’ve always been proud to represent Ontario—from wearing the red singlet at my very first Legion Nationals to competing at the Canada Games. Those moments helped pave the way for my journey to three Olympic Games,” Bishop-Nriagu said following the announcement. “It’s incredibly meaningful to be named to the Hall of Fame alongside so many great individuals, including my former teammate Shawnacy Barber. His legacy continues to inspire, and I’m honoured to be part of this class in his memory.”

Born in Eganville, Ontario, Bishop-Nriagu’s path to the world stage was sparked not on the track, but on the soccer pitch. It was there that a coach recognized her exceptional speed and made a bold prediction. “He saw me running up and down the field and said, ‘You’re going to be an Olympian one day,’” she recalled during an interview in 2017. “And I think that just planted the seed. I had no clue what it took to get there, but I was going. That was the dream.”

Joining the Ottawa Lions in the summer of 2002 at the age of 13, Bishop-Nriagu quickly found herself immersed in a community that nurtured her love of track and field. “Ottawa… it’s where I started my career. It’s where I really found the love for track and field. The Ottawa Lions built that up for me,” she said in 2017. “The club has always been home to me.”

After high school, Bishop-Nriagu competed for one year with the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees before transferring to the University of Windsor, where she would train under legendary coach Dennis Fairall and spend the remainder of her competitive career. Even as she built her life and family in Windsor, she continued to represent the Ottawa Lions with pride—a testament to the bond she maintained with the Lions.

Her competitive résumé ranks among the greatest in Canadian middle-distance history. She is a three-time Olympian (2012, 2016, 2020), highlighted by a fourth-place finish at the 2016 Games in Rio where she set a Canadian record of 1:57.02 in the 800 metres. She would go on to lower that record to 1:57.01 at the Monaco Diamond League in 2017—a mark that still stands. Earlier that same summer, she thrilled a partisan Ottawa crowd at the Canadian Championships, cruising to victory over 800 metres while hundreds of fans from Eganville cheered in matching “Melissa” t-shirts. It was one of four national senior titles she captured during a career that helped redefine Canadian middle-distance running.

In 2015, Bishop-Nriagu captured gold at the Pan American Games in Toronto and made history just weeks later by winning silver at the World Championships in Beijing—the first Canadian woman ever to medal in the 800 metres on the world stage. She also holds the Ottawa Lions club record in the 1500 metres, with a time of 4:04.42 set in 2021.

Her legacy has long been celebrated in Windsor, where she was inducted into the University of Windsor Alumni Sports Hall of Fame in 2018. This week, it was announced that she will also be part of the 2025 induction class for the Windsor/Essex County Sports Hall of Fame.

Through it all, Bishop-Nriagu remained deeply connected to the Ottawa Lions. When she returned to compete at a pair of Twilight Meets in the summer of 2020, her final races in the city, athletes of all ages—some who had only ever seen her on TV—seized every chance for a wave, a brief hello, or a socially distant selfie.

Reflecting on the Club’s role in her journey, Bishop-Nriagu offered a simple but powerful tribute today: “They developed me into the athlete I am and have always been my home club –  representing them on world stages even with Canada across my jersey. So a big heartfelt thank you to the club for continued support from the very beginning to now!”

Details on the Athletics Ontario Hall of Fame induction ceremony are expected to be announced later this year, with the event anticipated to take place in the fall in Toronto. For the Ottawa Lions and the broader Canadian athletics community, Melissa Bishop-Nriagu is more than a champion—she’s a role model, a trailblazer, and now, a Hall of Famer.

aberdeen_pavilion

Returning to Training

by Clublinkinbio

Attention: Athletes, Parents, and Coaches

The past two weeks have been challenging following the devastating collapse of the Dome at Louis Riel. While workers continue to assess the situation, significant damage has been identified, including large tears in the membrane that must be repaired before we can return. In the meantime, we are preparing alternative training locations until we resume training at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility in the spring.

These alternative facilities are not traditional track settings, but they will allow us to continue our programming in a manner similar to 2020 and 2021. During that period, despite disruptions, athletes across all age groups and disciplines achieved personal bests and qualified for championships. A determined and consistent athlete will find success with the options currently available.

I am providing an update on training venues below.

None of these solutions are perfect, and we greatly appreciate your patience and understanding during this transition.

Training Venues & Schedules

Aberdeen Pavilion (1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON K1S 5J3)

Starting Thursday, February 26

  • Training times: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
  • This will be the main training hub for our Youth, Foundation, and Aspire programs, as well as other groups requiring a large indoor space.

Important Notes:

✅ Footwear: Bring a separate pair of shoes to avoid tracking mud and water into the facility.
✅ Temperature: The venue is not heated throughout the day—dress in layers. Distance groups will train outdoors for most sessions.
✅ Equipment: All members (youth to competitive) should bring a yoga mat for ground dynamics and core workouts.
❌ No Spikes: The floor is concrete.
💧 Hydration: Bring plenty of water—only one water source is available on-site.

Youth Program

  • Start Date: Monday, March 3
  • Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
  • March Break: Training will continue during March Break to compensate for missed sessions.

Foundation Program

  • Start Date: Thursday, February 27
  • Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
  • March Break: No practices during March Break.

Aspire Program

  • Start Date: Thursday, February 27
  • Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
  • March Break: No practices during March Break.
  • Distance Groups: May use the venue to warm up/store gear and train along the canal and surrounding pathways. The hexagon path is a near-perfect 400m loop.

Competitive / Varsity / Masters

  • Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays | 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Training runs until April 12.
  • Distance Groups: May use the venue to warm up/store gear and train along the canal and surrounding pathways.

Terry Fox Athletic Facility Gym

We will offer weight room and high-speed treadmill sessions over the next few weeks.

  • Booking: Sessions must be scheduled in advance. Two-hour time slots will be available throughout the day when staff are present.
  • Booking Contact: Email rjohnston@ottawalions.com to schedule.
  • No-Show Policy: If you fail to show up without providing 24-hour notice, you will lose future booking privileges.

📅 Schedule & Availability: Click here to view available hours.

🏅 Priority Access:

  • National Team members
  • Carded athletes
  • Quest for Gold recipients
  • Athletes who met 2024 National Championship or U SPORTS standards

🚴 High-Speed Treadmill Usage:

  • This treadmill is for high-speed training only (not for casual long runs).
  • Limited bookings will be available to ensure effective training sessions.

Carleton Fieldhouse

  • Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Surface: Rubberized track with very tight turns—best suited for short speed work.
  • Available Equipment: Blocks and scissor hurdles.
  • Restrictions: Turf field not available due to soccer team training.

St. Lawrence University (Indoor Track Sessions)

  • Time: Saturdays | 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
  • Cost: $25 travel fee per session.
  • Registration Deadline: Wednesday, February 26 at 11:00 AM
  • Sign-Up Link: Click here to confirm attendance.

If we secure additional dates as the outdoor season approaches, we will organize more trips.

Final Notes

It has been a frustrating few weeks, and we truly appreciate your patience and commitment. We are actively searching for additional training venues and will keep all members updated as new options become available.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.

Richard Johnston
Head Coach / Director
📧 rjohnston@ottawalions.com

20250213_snow_closure

Louis Riel Dome Collapse Forces Temporary Suspension of Training

by Clublinkinbio

We are devastated to share that the Dome at Louis Riel suffered a complete collapse during Sunday’s snowstorm and will remain closed indefinitely. While assessments are ongoing, significant structural damage and large tears in the dome membrane will require extensive repairs before we can safely return.

In the meantime, we are working urgently to secure alternative training locations for all of our programs. However, given that most sports complexes are already booked for the season, this process may take some time. Until we have confirmed new training space, all practices will unfortunately be paused until further notice.

We understand this is far from ideal, and we are doing everything possible to minimize disruptions and resume training as soon as possible. We are also actively evaluating how to manage seasonal memberships for our Youth and Foundation programs, particularly for those transitioning between Winter 2 and Winter 3 sessions.

We appreciate your patience and will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time.

20250213_snow_closure

Storm Update: Dome @ Louis-Riel Closed Friday, Schedule Adjustments Planned

by Clublinkinbio

Due to the recent winter storm, the Dome @ Louis-Riel will remain closed on Friday, February 14. Despite the setback, we remain hopeful the facility will reopen on Saturday, February 15 for the Ravens Last Chance Meet.

We are working to adjust the meet schedule to minimize disruptions. However, due to time constraints, the open 400m event has been removed.

With another winter storm expected Saturday evening, we recognize that safe travel will be a priority. For teams traveling from New Brunswick, Thunder Bay, Quebec City, London, Waterloo, and Toronto, we understand these changes may be disappointing. Given the fluid situation, refunds will be offered for any scratches declared within the next 24 hours. If the Dome @ Louis-Riel remains closed this weekend, all entries will be fully refunded.

We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please stay tuned for further updates.

(Windsor, Canada---02 June 2024) Lauren Gale races to win the 400m in meet record time at the 2024 Johnny Loaring Classic held at the University of Windsor. The competition is part of the Athletics Canada National Track and Field Tour and the World Athletics Continental Tour. Photograph Copyright 2024 Sean Burges / Mundo Sport Images. If posting to social media please tag @mundosportimages

Lions Roar in Boston: 17 Medals and 27 Personal Bests

by ClublinkinbioUniversity

What a weekend in Boston it was for the Ottawa Lions family. Competing against elite NCAA fields at Boston College, Boston University, and Harvard on Friday and Saturday, the Pride rose to the occasion, amassing an impressive 17-medal haul, including eight golds. Over the two days of competition, athletes achieved an incredible 27 personal bests.

Lauren Gale stole the show on the track, securing victories in all three of her events and reaffirming her status as one of Canada’s top sprinters. Her 400-metre performance was the highlight of the weekend—at the Boston University Scarlet and White Invitational on Saturday, the two-time Olympian dominated the field, stopping the clock in 51.79 seconds. The time currently ranks 12th in the world this year.

Gale also showcased her range the day before at Boston College’s Showdown at the Heights, sprinting to gold in the 200m in 23.39 seconds—the second-fastest time by a Canadian this season and the fourth-fastest of her career. She capped off her triple-gold weekend with a 7.50-second victory in the 60m, finishing just 0.04 seconds off her personal best.

Stephan Balson made a statement of his own, delivering personal bests in all three of his events while climbing the Ottawa Lions’ U20 all-time rankings. The Saint Kitts and Nevis international shined in the 400 metres, setting a lifetime best of 47.78 seconds. His time now ranks 16th in the world this year among U20 athletes and fifth on the Club’s U20 all-time list.

Competing at Boston College the day before, Balson’s form was equally impressive. He blazed to 6.83 seconds in the 60m, making him the third-fastest U20 athlete in Club history. In the 200m, he carried that momentum into a 21.64-second finish, securing ninth place on the all-time list. With each race, Balson continues to prove he has the speed, range, and potential to compete at the highest levels.

Stephan Balson wasn’t the only Ottawa Lion to shine in the 400m this weekend. He was one of seven athletes to break the 50-second barrier, a testament to the club’s strength in the event. Joining him with new lifetime bests were Ange-Mathis Kramo (49.24), James Compeau (49.29), and Safwan El Mansari (49.44). This success carried over to the University of Ottawa’s 4x400m squad, as Joel Gurnsey, El Mansari, William Harris, and David Moulongou combined for a time of 3:16.42—the third-fastest in Gee-Gees history and the school’s fastest since 2013.

Elizabeth Vroom and Jessica Gyamfi also etched their names into the Ottawa Lions record books. Vroom, competing for Queen’s University, claimed gold in the mile at the Showdown at the Heights, clocking 4:49.26, a time that now ranks seventh-fastest in Club history. Meanwhile, Gyamfi continued her dominance in the shot put, winning the event with a personal-best throw of 13.85 metres—breaking her own University of Ottawa school record set just a week earlier. The mark also moves her up to eighth on the Club’s all-time list.

Kyle Waldrum and Liam Davis left their mark at the Windsor Team Challenge, delivering standout performances that reshaped the Ottawa Lions’ all-time rankings. Waldrum, a freshman at the University of Guelph, put together three lifetime bests en route to a heptathlon total of 4,544 points, a score that now ranks ninth in Club history. His Gryphons teammate Liam Davis also had a career-best showing in the shot put, launching a throw of 15.23 metres—good for 10th all-time in Club history and ninth nationally on the U SPORTS qualifying list. Davis wrapped up his weekend with a silver medal in the weight throw, reaching 16.20 metres, just a week after securing his automatic U SPORTS qualifying mark in the event.

With momentum on their side, the Ottawa Lions and their varsity programs now turn their focus to the final stretch of the indoor season. This weekend, they’ll have the opportunity to build on their success as they host the Ravens Last Chance Meet at the Louis-Riel Dome. Set for Friday evening and Saturday, the meet will serve as a key tune-up ahead of upcoming conference and national championships, providing athletes with one last chance to sharpen their performances and chase qualifying standards.

Full results from last weekend are available on our results page.
Updated Club Rankings are available at https://milesrowat.shinyapps.io/ottl_rankings/

******This is an unprocessed scan from the negative. You can buy it as is and clean it up yourself, or contact us for rates on providing the service for you. ******* (Ottawa, Canada---18-21 July 1991) Yolande Jones in the 100m hurdles at the 1991 Canadian Pan American Games Trials meet held in Ottawa, Canada. Photo 1991 Copyright Sean Burges / Mundo Sport Images. ******This is an unprocessed scan from the negative. You can buy it as is and clean it up yourself, or contact us for rates on providing the service for you. *******

Yolande Jones-Grande to Be Inducted into Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame

by Clublinkinbio

The Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club is proud to celebrate coach Yolande Jones-Grande, who has been announced as an inductee into the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame for her outstanding achievements as an athlete. A star of Canadian hurdling during the 1980’s and 90’s, Jones-Grande enjoyed a decorated track career that saw her represent Canada on the international stage for nearly a decade.

Born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Jones-Grande moved to Oshawa in 1980 and found her passion for track and field after joining her school’s team to make friends. She was initially drawn to hurdles because only boys were doing them, and her competitive nature pushed her to take on the challenge. Within two years, she was one of the country’s top young hurdlers, earning a spot on the Canadian national team.

Jones-Grande’s career flourished as she collected numerous national junior and senior medals in the 100-metre hurdles. In 1984, she won a silver medal in the 100m hurdles at the Pan American Junior Championships in the Bahamas, an experience that fueled her desire to compete at the highest level.

Two years later, Jones-Grande qualified for the 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh after running a personal best of 13.55 seconds at the Canadian Senior Championships in Ottawa. She would go on to compete for Canada at several international meets, including events in Yugoslavia and Morocco.

Her induction into the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and impact on the sport. While her days as a competitor are behind her, Jones-Grande continues to leave her mark on Canadian athletics as a coach with the Ottawa Lions, mentoring the next generation of athletes.

The Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Tribute Communities Centre, where Jones-Grande will be honoured alongside her four fellow inductees. The Ottawa Lions congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition and celebrate her remarkable journey from a young hurdler in Oshawa to an international competitor and respected coach.