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!