Our Story
Walter Ellis
Walter Ellis, Wayne Brown & Claude Butler at the original gravel track at Shamrock Field
Canada Games Stadium
Humble Beginnings
The roots of the Saint John Track & Field Club trace back to 1958, when Walter Ellis arrived from England and took a teaching position at St. Malachy’s High School. Known to all as “Walt,” he coached many sports, but it was Track & Field where he made his deepest and most lasting mark on the community.
With only a gravel track and a dream, Walt founded the Saint John Track & Field Club in 1976, creating a clear pathway for athletes to train, compete, and grow. The club was officially incorporated in 1980. Its constitution was signed by dedicated parent volunteers Doug Damon, Judy Latham, Bob Hooper, and Paul James. Their early commitment helped set the foundation for success. Working quietly behind the scenes, Walt’s wife, Judy, was instrumental in organizing competitions, from local meets and eventually national events such as the Canada Games.
Passing the Baton
Following Walt’s passing in 1995, leadership transitioned to former athletes-turned-coaches Kristen Sweet, Rorri Currie, and David McAuley. They also contributed to Canada Games teams while continuing to guide the club. Canada Games Stadium remained the heart of regional competition, hosting major meets and developing many of the area’s top athletes.
As the club grew, so did its facilities. From the gravel track at Shamrock Field, the sport expanded indoors at UNB Saint John, opening the door to year-round training. A defining moment came in 1985, when Saint John hosted the Canada Summer Games. The construction of Canada Games Stadium transformed the city into a premier Track & Field destination.
With Walt serving as Head Coach for those Games, Saint John became a provincial hub and a launching point for generations of athletes and leaders. This era produced standout athletes, including Gina Spear, Rorri Currie, Scott Robinson, Bill MacMackin, Lee Latham, Trina Penny, Peter King, and Kevin Hooper, many of whom went on to become coaches, officials, and leaders, sustaining the club for decades.
Kristin Sweet, Rorrie Currie and David McAuley