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Breaking Barriers: Lions Women Set New Standard in Sprinting

by Clublinkinbio

The roar of the crowd may have faded, but the echoes of a record-setting season still linger for the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club. In 2024, a remarkable group of five women sprinted their way into the record books. Collectively, they became the largest group of women ever to break the 12-second barrier in a single season, surpassing the 2023 total by one and showing the future of women’s sprinting is bright in the nation’s capital.

Breaking Records: Jorai Oppong-Nketiah

Among the standout performers was 16-year-old Jorai Oppong-Nketiah, who delivered a series of electrifying performances that rewrote the record books. A double Canadian champion at the U18 and U20 levels, Oppong-Nketiah capped her season by clocking 11.38 seconds at the Canadian Championships in Montreal. This performance set a Canadian U18 record, a Championship record, and obliterated Farah Jacques’ eight-year-old Club record of 11.47 seconds. It also stands as the second-fastest time ever run by a Canadian teenager, trailing only Angela Bailey’s Canadian U20 record of 11.21 set in 1981.

A Versatile Talent: Lauren Gale

Lauren Gale, a name synonymous with excellence in the 200m and 400m, showed once again why she remains a force in Canadian athletics. Though the 100m isn’t her signature event, Gale recorded a personal best of 11.55 seconds at the Johnny Loaring Classic in Windsor. Her performance elevated her to a tie for fourth on the Lions’ all-time list. 

Ending on a High Note: Victoria McIntyre

At 29, Victoria McIntyre’s career took a thrilling turn in 2024. Her 11.57-second sprint at the Johnny Loaring Classic marked a three-tenths improvement on her personal best. The , earning her a ninth-place finish at the Olympic Trials and placing her seventh in Club history. For McIntyre, this season wasn’t just about speed—it was about resilience.

At the conclusion of the season, McIntyre announced her retirement from competitive athletics, marking the end of a distinguished career with one of her finest performances.

A Dual-Sport Phenomenon: Kaiya Woodcock

Seventeen-year-old Kaiya Woodcock made waves at the OFSAA Championships in London this past June, clocking an impressive 11.84 seconds to become the second-fastest U18 female in Club history. She would follow that up with a 17th place finish at the Canadian U20 Championships later that same month. A dual-sport athlete and standout striker for the West Ottawa Soccer Club, Woodcock’s success on the track suggests she has the talent to thrive in either arena.

Leading the Way: Bianca Borgella

Bianca Borgella’s 2024 campaign was as inspiring as it was historic. The 21-year-old para-athlete shattered her own Canadian T13 record with an 11.92-second run at the Bob Vigars Classic, a time that ranked as the fourth-fastest globally in her category this year. Borgella’s record run and victory at the Paralympic Trials secured her first Paralympic Games berth. Though a hamstring injury cut short her Paralympic final, Borgella’s 2024 season solidified her status as a star in the sport.

A Sprinter’s Sabbatical: Katie Manor

A member of the sub-12 club in 2023, Katie Manor posted a personal best of 11.87 seconds last year. The University of Ottawa student kicked off the 2024 season with a bang, recording a school record of 7.53 seconds over 60m and qualified for her second straight USports Championship. However, Manor chose to take a break from the summer season in 2024, leaving fans excited for what’s to come in 2025. 

A Legacy in Motion

For the Ottawa Lions, 2024 was not just a year of broken records—it was a year that redefined what’s possible. The achievements of these five women serve as a testament to the Club’s commitment to fostering talent and pushing boundaries. Looking ahead, the possibility of combining this exceptional group of athletes into a 4x100m relay team offers an exciting prospect. The Lions’ current relay record of 47.27 seconds seems poised to fall if these sprinters join forces. As 2024 comes to a close, one thing is certain: the legacy of the Lions sprinters is only beginning to unfold.

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Breaking 50: Ottawa Lions’ 400m Stars Shine in 2024

by Clublinkinbio

Olympic years are always special in the world of athletics, with heightened attention, concentrated focus, and a clearly defined goal. The 2024 season has produced a number of memorable and noteworthy efforts for the Ottawa Lions, particularly in the 400 metres — a discipline that has become a defining highlight of the Club’s year.

For multiple reasons, 2024 could be remembered as the “Year of the 400 Metres” for the Lions. A total of 10 athletes broke the 50-second barrier for the one-lap race over the past 12 months, marking the fifth-highest total in Club history. While this figure does not surpass the record of 12 athletes set in 2009 and matched in 2015, it is the age of the athletes achieving these times that has made this year stand out.

Historic Performances by U18 Athletes

For the first time in Club history, three U18 athletes bettered the 50-second barrier in the same season, led by Zachary Jeggo. Jeggo took nearly half a second off the previous Club U18 record, clocking an impressive 47.82 seconds to win the OFSAA Championships in June.

Jeggo’s feat was complemented by Ange-Mathis Kramo and Kyle London. Kramo became the youngest Lion ever to break 50 seconds with a 49.65 performance to place fifth at the Ontario U20 Championships. At just 16 years and 47 days old, Kramo narrowly beat Jeggo’s age mark set in 2023 by just five days. London joined the sub-50 club with his 49.98 effort, finishing 11th at the Royal Canadian Legion Championships.

U20 Breakthroughs

The U20 category contributed four more athletes to the sub-50 list in 2024, headlined by Stephan Balson. The Saint Kitts-Nevis international impressed with a 47.89-second performance at the Canadian U20 Championships, having previously dipped under 50 seconds at his national championships in 2023 before joining the Club. Joining him were William Sanders, William Harris, and Safwan El Mansari, each posting sub-50 times for the first time in their careers.

U23 and Open Category Highlights

Among U23 athletes, David Moulongou and Keito Newman both achieved sub-50 marks early in the season. Moulongou clocked a 49.06 at the Spring Kick Start meet in May, while Newman recorded a 49.23 at the California Pacific Conference Championships in April — his first time under the 50-second barrier.

The open category saw Saj Alhaddad join the ranks with a 49.79 effort indoors at Boston University. At 32 years old, Alhaddad has been a long standing member of the sub-50 club; however, this year’s performance made him the third-oldest athlete in Club history to break 50 seconds, trailing only Ray Cardinal, who posted a time of 47.84 at the age of 37.

Women’s 400m Milestone

While not part of the sub-50 list, Lauren Gale’s achievements this year deserve special mention. The 24-year-old set a new women’s Club record of 50.47 seconds at the Royal City Inferno in June. Gale’s time, the fastest by a Canadian woman since 1992, secured her a spot at her second Olympic Games, underscoring her status as one of Canada’s premier 400m runners.

A Season to Remember

From record-breaking youth performances to standout achievements by seasoned athletes, the 2024 season has cemented itself as a historic year for the Ottawa Lions in the 400 metres. With such a strong foundation of talent and potential, the future looks bright for the Club as it continues to push the boundaries of excellence in athletics.

For more Club statistics, please visit https://milesrowat.shinyapps.io/ottl_rankings/

(Montreal, Canada---28 June 2024) Glenroy Gilbert competing in the 2024 Bell Trials Canadian Track and Field Championships and Olympic Trials. Photograph Copyright 2024 Miles Ryan / Mundo Sport Images. If posting to social media please tag @mundosportimages

From Olympic Gold to Mentorship: Lions Coaches Lead the Way

by ClublinkinbioNational

The Ottawa Lions are proud to highlight the outstanding achievements and ongoing development of its coaches through two prestigious programs: the Petro Canada Coaching Excellence Awards and the Athletics Canada Coach Mentorship Program.  

Glenroy Gilbert Honoured with Petro Canada Coaching Excellence Award  

Glenroy Gilbert, Canada’s Head Coach was recognized last week with the Petro Canada Coaching Excellence Award for his instrumental role as lead coach of the Canadian 4×100-metre relay team. Under his guidance and excellent leadership, the team claimed Olympic Gold at the Paris Olympics, a feat not achieved by a Canadian team since Gilbert helped Canada to the top of the podium 28 years ago. Gilbert had previously been recognized with the Coaching Excellence Award in 2022.

The Petro Canada Coaching Excellence Awards, presented by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) and Petro-Canada, celebrate coaches whose athletes have achieved podium success at world championships, Olympic and Paralympic Games, and Special Olympics World Games. This year,  67 coaches from 27 sports were honoured, continuing a tradition that has recognized 1,512 coaches since the program’s inception in 1986.  

Investing in the Future: Athletics Canada Coach Mentorship Program  

The Ottawa Lions are equally thrilled to spotlight the involvement of two of their own in Athletics Canada’s Coach Mentorship Program. Yolande Jones-Grande has been selected as one of this year’s mentees, while Leslie Estwick, a veteran coach with the Lions, will serve as a mentor.  

This program, running from December 2024 in Edmonton through the Summer 2025 outdoor season, is designed to enrich the coaching experience by fostering deep, personal mentorship connections. Participants engage in regular interactions, both virtually and in person, while pursuing professional development opportunities, NCCP training, and more. The program aims to create a supportive environment where coaches can take risks, grow, and refine their skills for the betterment of themselves and their athletes.  

Celebrating Lions Coaches  

The Ottawa Lions take immense pride in the achievements and dedication of their coaching staff. From guiding athletes to Olympic podiums to fostering the next generation of coaching talent, Lions coaches embody excellence, leadership, and a commitment to the sport.  

As we celebrate these milestones, we look forward to seeing the continued impact of Glenroy Gilbert, Yolande Jones-Grande, and Leslie Estwick on athletics in Canada and beyond.  

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Lions mourn loss of former athlete Rowan Dean

by Clublinkinbio

It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of 16-year-old Rowan Dean, a former member of the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club. A dedicated runner from Kemptville, Rowan tragically passed away Sunday evening on a training run, leaving a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, teammates, and the entire running community in eastern Ontario.

Rowan’s journey in athletics was marked by his exceptional dedication and perseverance, qualities that made him stand out both on and off the track. His love for running and his unwavering commitment to excellence were evident in every aspect of his life. Whether it was the early morning training sessions or the intensity he brought to every competition, Rowan’s passion for the sport was undeniable.

Representing the Brockville Legion this past season, Rowan’s hard work culminated in a national finalist position in the 2000-metre steeplechase at the Royal Canadian Legion Track and Field Championships. 

His passing is a tremendous loss for everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. As we remember Rowan, we are reminded of the impact he had on so many lives, his genuine kindness, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Rowan’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. He will be missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.

A celebration of Rowan’s life is scheduled for Saturday, October 26 from 1 to 3pm at North Grenville District High School in Kemptville. 

(Montreal, Canada---30 June 2024) \ competing in the 2024 Bell Trials Canadian Track and Field Championships and Olympic Trials. Photograph Copyright 2024 Brian Rouble / Mundo Sport Images. If posting to social media please tag @mundosportimages

Lions Celebrate a Year of Triumph: Record-Breaking Performances and Rising Stars Shine at 2024 Awards Banquet

by Clublinkinbio

In a celebration of exceptional talent and dedication, the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club honoured its top performers at this year’s awards ceremony. The event capped off a triumphant year for the club, which not only claimed the Ontario Overall Club title for the first time since 2015 but also added U20 and U18 age group titles to its illustrious history—bringing the club’s total to nearly 60 provincial team titles over the past quarter century. The ceremony recognized achievements that spanned national and international competitions, highlighting athletes who not only broke records but also continued a legacy of excellence.

Track Stars Lauren Gale and David Adeleye Shine Again

For the second consecutive year, Lauren Gale and David Adeleye were named recipients of the prestigious Gilbert Award, recognizing them as the top male and female track athletes. Both have dominated their respective events over the past two seasons. Gale, an Olympic finalist in the 4x400m relay and national record holder at 300 metres, further cemented her status as Canada’s premier 400-metre runner this year, setting a Club record of 50.47 seconds—the fastest time by a Canadian woman since 1992.

Adeleye, who captured silver at the National Championships in the 110-metre hurdles, set a personal best of 13.84 seconds, placing him third on the Club’s all-time list. Adding to his accolades, he set a new Club U23 record in the 60-metre hurdles (7.83) and earned a USports silver medal while representing the University of Toronto.

Throwers rule the field

This year’s recipient of the Gilbert Award as Male Athlete of the Year (Field) is Connor Fraser, whose standout performance in discus earned him a silver medal at the National Championships. Fraser, last year’s Top U20 Male Athlete, continued his strong form with gold in the Athletics Ontario Championships in discus and multiple top-10 finishes in his first year in the senior category.

Jessica Gyamfi was honoured with the Gilbert Award for Female Athlete of the Year (Field) after claiming gold in discus at the Athletics Ontario Championships. Gyamfi was also a finalist in both the shot put and discus at this year’s Olympic Trials, as well as a finalist at the USports Championships in both events.

Rising Stars: U18 Athletes Lead the Next Generation

Jorai Oppong-Nketiah, a rising star in Canadian sprinting, was unsurprisingly named the Most Outstanding Female U18 athlete for 2024. Oppong-Nketiah, who won last year’s U16 Female Award, shattered the Canadian U18 record in the 100 metres with a blistering time of 11.38 seconds, claiming gold at the Canadian U20 Championships. She also completed a second consecutive sprint double at the Royal Canadian Legion Championships, setting a meet record in the 100 metres.

Zach Jeggo became just the third boy in club history to win Outstanding U18 Performer two years in a row. The 17-year-old captured seven national championship medals across U18 and U20 competitions this season. Among the highlights was his meet-record victory in the 400-metre hurdles at the Royal Canadian Legion Championships. Jeggo also earned silver in the 400 metres and added relay medals in both the 4×400 and 4×100 events. At the U20 Championships, Jeggo took home additional medals in hurdles, the 400m, and the 4×400 relay.

Legacy of Excellence

Bianca Borgella claimed the Sam Estwick Memorial Award for the fourth consecutive season, solidifying her status as the most outstanding para athlete. Borgella, who competed in the 2024 Paralympics, broke the national T13 100-metre record twice this year, finishing with a best time of 11.92 seconds—ranking fourth globally.

In the Masters category, Wendy Alexis was named Most Outstanding Masters Athlete for an astounding 12th time. Alexis, last honoured in 2020, added to her impressive career by winning the world title in the W65 100 metres and taking silver in the 200 metres this season. Her induction into the Canadian Masters Hall of Fame served as the crowning achievement of a year that reaffirmed her place among the world’s best.

Mike Conway, this year’s Male Most Outstanding Masters Athlete, had a stellar season, winning gold in the M40 800 metres at both the National Championships and the Pan-American Masters Games, along with a silver in the M40 400 metres.

Honouring the Future of Athletics

The ceremony also celebrated the club’s younger athletes, with Liam Davis and Kathryn Moreland recognized as the Outstanding Performers in the U20 category. Davis excelled in the shot put, earning silver at both the National and Athletics Ontario Championships, while Moreland’s excellence in the heptathlon earned her silver at nationals and gold in the pentathlon at the Canadian Indoor Championships.

In the U16 division, Max Cazabon and Mallea McMullin were named Outstanding Performers. Cazabon earned gold in high jump at the Athletics Ontario Championships and the Ontario Summer Games, while McMullin dominated the javelin, claiming victory at every championship she entered in 2024, culminating in her first national title at the Royal Canadian Legion Championships.

Jake Claydon-St. John took home the Male U14 Outstanding Performer award, showcasing his versatility across middle-distance running and field events. Claydon-St. John medalled at the Ontario Championships in the 800m, 1200m, and 2000m events, and also secured bronze in the shot put, making him the only athlete in club history to win provincial medals in both a distance event and a field event in the same year.

Cross-Country and Combined Events Standouts

Kevin Robertson was recognized as the top male cross-country performer following his first-place finish at the Athletics Ontario Championships. On the women’s side, Nina Gunther and Maddie Seaby were co-honoured for their achievements, with Gunther leading the senior women’s team to provincial gold and Seaby finishing top-12 at the Canadian Championships.

In the combined events category, Kyle Waldrum and Kathryn Moreland were acknowledged for their achievements in decathlon and heptathlon, respectively. Waldrum earned silver at the Ontario U20 Championships, while Moreland was a two-time national medallist.

A Year to Remember

The Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club congratulates all of this year’s award winners for their exceptional dedication and achievements. As the 2024 season draws to a close, the athletes continue to set the bar for excellence, inspiring the next generation of track and field stars.

(Montreal, Canada---30 June 2024) \ competing in the 2024 Bell Trials Canadian Track and Field Championships and Olympic Trials. Photograph Copyright 2024 Brian Rouble / Mundo Sport Images. If posting to social media please tag @mundosportimages

Join our team today! Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club Announces Program Registrations for 2024-2025 Season

by Clublinkinbio

The Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club is excited to announce that registrations for all programs for the 2024-2025 season are now officially open!

After a successful 2023-2024 season that saw our membership surpass 1,500 athletes and record-breaking participation in our hosted events, we are eager to build on this momentum. The club played host to 21 events, including the highly attended Canadian Cross Country Championships and our ever-popular Twilight Series and indoor meets.

On the competitive front, the Ottawa Lions continued to establish themselves as a powerhouse, capturing 7 international medals, 74 national medals and 116 provincial medals. Our team proudly earned the titles of Ontario Overall Club Champion, U20 Club Champions, and U18 Club Champions. From local grassroots races to the global stage of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, our athletes shined brightly.

As we turn the page on hosting the Canadian Cross Country Championships, we set our sights on new goals, including bringing the Canadian Track and Field Championships to Terry Fox Athletic Facility in the summers of 2025 and 2026.

Join us for another season of excellence, growth, and community at the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club by registering today!

For more information on the programs we offer, including training days and times, please visit our one of the following pages for more information:

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Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club Celebrates 50th Anniversary

by Clublinkinbio

Today marks a significant milestone in the history of the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club as we celebrate our 50th anniversary. Since the first practice was held on April 25, 1974, led by head coach Bob Staveley and a team of dedicated individuals, the club has been a cornerstone of athletics in the Ottawa region for half a century.

In its inaugural year, the East Ottawa Lions, as they were initially known, held their first practice at the old Canadian Forces Base Rockcliffe track. Under the leadership of Bob Staveley, the club welcomed athletes aged 12 and up, with a mission to provide opportunities for youth in track and field within the community. Originally sponsored by the East Ottawa Lions Club, the club’s membership was initially limited to athletes residing within specific boundaries north of the Queensway and east of the Rideau River.

Reflecting on the early days of the club, Staveley at the time remarked, “There was a need for a second track and field club in the city, and I’m proud to have been a part of establishing the Lions.” Assisted by a team of dedicated coaches including Owen Froggett, Ken Parker, Rae Ellen Desloges, Dick Cardill, and Greg Moses, the club quickly gained momentum, fostering talent and passion for athletics in the region.

The original Board of Directors, led by President Major Angus Read and Vice-President Bob Staveley, played a pivotal role in shaping the club’s direction and ensuring its success in the years to come.

Over the past five decades, the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club has grown from its humble beginnings to become a powerhouse in Canadian athletics, producing 22 Olympians, 17 Paralympians, nearly 200 international medals, over 1700 national championship medals, and in excess of 3600 provincial medals. The club’s legacy extends beyond the track, instilling values of dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship in generations of athletes.

As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we extend our gratitude to all past and present members, coaches, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who have contributed to the success and longevity of the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club. Here’s to the next fifty years of excellence in athletics!

(Langley, Canada---27 July 2023) Kevin Robertson competing on day one of the Canadian Track and Field Championships at the Macleod Athletic Park Stadium. Copyright 2023 Miles Ryan Rowat/ Mundo Sport Images. If posting to social media please tag @mundosportimages

Robertson moves to second on all-time steeplechase list

by Clublinkinbio

After a 2023 season which saw steeplechaser Kevin Robertson qualify for his first NCAA Championship, win a bronze medal at the Canadian Championships, and take top spot at the NACAC U23 Championships you may be left wondering what could he have in store for an encore. Friday night in Charlottesville, VA we got a pretty good glimpse and the future is bright. 

Opening his season at the Virginia Grand Prix, Robertson easily took top spot in his heat of the 3000 metre steeplechase in a personal best time of 8 minutes and 33.88 seconds. The Syracuse University student won by more than 11 seconds over Princeton’s Jackson Shorten. Robertson placed eighth overall.

In addition to a new lifetime best for Robertson, his performance Friday evening had him leap frog Joshua Karaja into second place on the Club’s all-time list. Alain Boucher set the current Club standard of 8:33.65 at the Commonwealth Track and Field Challenge in Sydney in 1990.

In Louisiana with the national team in preparation for the upcoming World Athletics Relay Championships, Lauren Gale took home a pair of fourth place finishes at the LSU Alumni Gold Meet. Gale  improved her seasonal best over 200 metres to 23.30 seconds in Baton Rouge – moving into third spot on the early season national rankings. Over 400 metres, Gale finished the one lap race in 52.42 seconds, two hundredths off her season’s best. . 

On the road, Josh Cassidy completed his second marathon in the span of a week rolling to an eighth place finish in the wheelchair section of the London Marathon Sunday morning. Following his fifth place finish in Boston on Monday, Cassidy finished the 26.2 mile course in a time of 1:35.40 – a scant seven seconds off another fifth place finish. 

Despite being on the other side of the country, there were a number of familiar faces on the start line of this year’s Vancouver Sun Run 10km. First across the finish line among the small group was Kyle Porter, who placed 32nd overall with a 31:58 clocking. Behind Porter were a pair of masters runners, Jay Sneddon and Sam Shi, who finished 25th and 42nd respectively in the men’s 30-34 age category. Jay was clocked in 34 minutes and 27 seconds, while Sam set a new lifetime best of 36 minutes and 16 seconds. 

For updated Club rankings, click here.

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Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club Announces Exciting Opportunities for Athletes, Coaches, and Volunteers

by Clublinkinbio

The Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club is proud to announce a series of exciting opportunities aimed at fostering growth, development, and community engagement within the sport of athletics.

As Ottawa emerges as a central hub for Track and Field and Cross Country, the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club is committed to providing a platform for athletes, coaches, parents, and volunteers to thrive on provincial, national, and international stages.

Over the past decade, Ottawa has played host to a prestigious lineup of major events, solidifying its status as a premier destination for athletics. These events include the Canadian Track and Field Championships, Canadian Cross Country Championships, and various other national and international competitions.

In preparation for the upcoming events, the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club is pleased to offer a range of opportunities for individuals to get involved and enhance their experience in the sport.

Coach and Officials Education:

  • Run, Jump, Throw Clinic: Taking place on May 12th at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility, this clinic provides newcomers to coaching and seasoned athletes alike with the chance to bolster their skills and gain valuable experience. Registration is open here.
  • Officials – Para Ready Seminar: In conjunction with the Spring Kick Start event on May 11th-12th, a para-ready officiating seminar will be held to equip officials with the necessary skills to work with para-athletes. Registration details will be available soon.
  • AO Officials Evolution Seminars: On April 25th and 27th, Athletics Ontario will host seminars in Ottawa to introduce interested individuals to the world of officiating in Track and Field. Registration is now open here.
  • Throws Clinic: Athletes, coaches, teachers, and officials are invited to participate in a throws clinic on May 5th at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility. Learn more and register here.

Volunteer Opportunities:
The Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club relies on the support of volunteers to ensure the success of its events. Opportunities to volunteer include:

  • High School Series: Volunteers are needed for events such as the Raven Relays, uOttawa High School Invite, and National Capital Classic. Volunteers can earn credits towards the 2024-2025 program. Details can be found here.
  • Spring Kick Start: Volunteers are needed for the event on May 11th-12th.
  • Twilight Series: Volunteers are essential for the success of these weekly events from June 5th to August 14th. Express interest here.
  • Lees Dome Fundraising Project: Volunteers are urgently needed for a major fundraising project to support the 2024-2025 season. Details can be found here.
  • Race Weekend: Volunteers are needed for various roles during the Ottawa Race Weekend from May 24th-26th. Express interest here.

“We are thrilled to offer these opportunities for individuals to engage with the sport of athletics and contribute to our vibrant community,” said Richard Johnston, Executive Director of the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club. “Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or volunteer, there’s something for everyone to get involved and make a difference.”

For more information about these opportunities and how to get involved, please visit Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club or contact Richard Johnston at rjohnston@ottawalions.com.

(Langley, Canada---27 July 2023) Maddie Seaby competing on day one of the Canadian Track and Field Championships at the Macleod Athletic Park Stadium. Copyright 2023 Miles Ryan Rowat/ Mundo Sport Images. If posting to social media please tag @mundosportimages

Maddie Seaby Cracks 5000m Top-10 in California Opener

by ClublinkinbioUniversity

In what felt like the unofficial kick off to the outdoor season, Lions athletes put forward a number of outstanding performances over the past four days in California, Florida, Massachusetts, and even here in Ottawa. 

Starting on the west coast, over half a dozen Club athletes were in action at the Bryan Clay Invitational in Azusa. First on the track was Maddie Seaby in the 5000 metres and her result did not disappoint. The first year student at the University of Louisville put forward her second straight personal best at the distance, finishing in a time of 16 minutes and 35.43 seconds. Seaby’s previous best was 16:46.20 at the BU Valentine Invitational in February. 

At the Club level, Maddie’s time ranks her fourth all-time among U20 athletes and ninth overall. In addition, she is now just 5.43 seconds off Athletics Canada’s qualifying standard for this year’s World U20 Athletics Championship scheduled for Peru in September. 

Staying at Azusa, Stephen Evans showed he’s ready to attack the season as he opened up with a 1:48.80 effort for 800 metres following an injury that curtailed his indoor season. USport silver medalist David Adeleye had a tough time with his opener as he battled some strong winds in running 14.61 in the 110 metre hurdles. 

Rounding out the competing contingent at Bryan Clay, Keito Newman ran 55.32 for 400 metre hurdles while Sydney Smith posted a 2:09.65 in a tactical 800 metres. André Alie-Lamarche also opened up his 2024 campaign with a 3:52.05 effort over 1500m.

Fresh off being named to Canada’s entry at the World Relay Championships in The Bahamas next month, Lauren Gale was in action at the Tom Jones Memorial on the campus of the University of Florida. Repeating her performance from two weeks prior, Gale again ran 23.33 seconds for 200 metres, which ranks her third fastest in Canada. Over 400 metres, Gale posted a time of 52.40 seconds to sit equal sixth on the national rankings. 

Up the coast in Massachusetts, Josh Cassidy kicked off his Boston Marathon Weekend with a fifth place finish in the wheelchair 5k. His time of 10 minutes and 58 seconds left the Paralympian 28 seconds off the podium. Cassidy will be back on the road Monday morning for the full marathon where he will look to improve upon his 19th place from a year ago.

Closer to home, the high school season officially kicked off with the Louis-Riel Indoor Meet #2 as a pair of Lions gave a glimpse of what may be in store this spring. Colonel By’s Mason Brennan topped the senior boy’s high jump with a leap of 1.90 metres – height that moves him to equal number seven on the Club U18 all-time list. As well, Louis-Riel’s own, Zachary Jeggo, put together an impressive run of 39.08 seconds in the 300 metre hurdles. Impressively, the time beats his previous best at the distance despite running over hurdles three inches higher. 

Full results from Bryan Clay Invitational can be found on our website.

Update Club rankings are available at https://milesrowat.shinyapps.io/ottl_rankings/