History of the Rupert Runners
Rupert Runners was founded on October 3, 1988 by Chuck McTavish and Ray Leonard in an attempt to encourage recreational and competitive running in Prince Rupert. Chuck, along with Frank DeBlass, had already instigated the Glory Days 10km road race in 1986, adding a 5km component in 1988, and seen it grow to be the biggest running event in the Northwest.
In April 1990 the club took over the City of Prince Rupert's annual half-marathon and increased the participation from a dozen or so to nearly 50 by adding a two-person relay category. A four-person relay category was later added, further increasing the participation.
The club semi-formalized in November 1990 and elected a committee. The new president was Frank DeBlass, with Lillian Nelson treasurer and Ray Leonard secretary/registrar. They successfully applied for affiliation to BC Athletics in 1991. In 1993, following the departure of Chuck McTavish, Rupert Runners took over the Glory Days races and changed the course to start and finish at the Crest Hotel.
In 1994 a Rupert Runners 17 person team successfully applied to enter the Jasper/Banff relay and surprised many by placing third in the mixed team category. Following their successful debut, the club competed in the relay every year until the demise of the event in 2000.
In 1997 Mari-Etha Pienaar replaced Frank DeBlass as president, and she in turn was succeeded in 2000 by Bruce Dudas.
Stalwart members of the club since its inception include ultramarathoner Ray Hermanson who has completed several 100 mile trail races, and Dr. John Nelson who has completed many marathons. Two club members have represented Canada: Ray Leonard in the World 100km Challenge in Holland and Japan, and recently, David Shearer in the World Triathlon Championships in France.