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Tom Longboat: The Onondaga Runner Who Broke Many Records in Canadian History

Brandon Cox

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Published in Tom Longboat The Onondaga Runner Who Broke Many Records Canadian History For Kids True Canadian Heroes Indigenous People Of Canada Edition

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Tom Longboat Running Tom Longboat The Onondaga Runner Who Broke Many Records Canadian History For Kids True Canadian Heroes Indigenous People Of Canada Edition

Tom Longboat The Onondaga Runner Who Broke Many Records Canadian History for Kids True Canadian Heroes Indigenous People Of Canada Edition

Early Life

Tom Longboat was born on June 4, 1887, on the Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation in Ontario, Canada. He was a member of the Onondaga people, one of the six nations that make up the Iroquois Confederacy. Longboat's father was a farmer and his mother was a homemaker. Longboat had 10 siblings.

Longboat began running at a young age. He would often run to and from school, a distance of about 5 miles each way. Longboat's running ability was quickly recognized by his teachers and peers. In 1905, he won his first race, a 10-mile event in Brantford, Ontario.

Running Career

Longboat's running career took off after he won the 1907 Boston Marathon. He became the first Native American to win the race, and his victory helped to break down barriers for other Native American runners. Longboat went on to win the Boston Marathon again in 1908 and 1909.

In addition to his Boston Marathon victories, Longboat also won numerous other races, including the New York City Marathon, the Chicago Marathon, and the London Marathon. He also set several world records, including the record for the longest distance run in a single day. In 1908, he ran 215 miles in 24 hours.

Longboat's running career was cut short by World War I. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in 1916 and served overseas in France. Longboat was wounded in action in 1917 and was discharged from the army in 1919.

Legacy

Tom Longboat is considered one of the greatest long-distance runners of all time. He broke numerous records and helped to break down barriers for other Native American runners. Longboat's legacy continues to inspire runners today.

In 1951, Longboat was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame. In 1996, he was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame. In 2008, Canada Post issued a postage stamp in Longboat's honor.

Longboat's story is a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. He overcame many challenges in his life, but he never gave up on his dreams. Longboat's story is an inspiration to us all.

Tom Longboat - The Onondaga Runner Who Broke Many Records | Canadian History for Kids | True Canadian Heroes - Indigenous People Of Canada Edition

by David Wright

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