Olympism is a state of mind

Mercredi, Octobre 12, 2011 - 11:31

"Olympism is not a system, it is a state of mind. It can permeate a wide variety of modes of expression and no single race or era can claim to have the monopoly of it." Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern day Olympics.

James Worrall (CANADA). A 1936 Olympian. A flag bearer for his country. A hurdler. A lawyer. A president of the Canadian Olympic Committee. A member of the International Olympic Committee. A friend. An author.A mentor. A member of the Order of Canada. A Hall of Famer.

And if "Olympism" is a philosophy of life, this was most definitely James Worrall's philosophy. One who combined a balance between quality of life, mind and soul, and had respect for universal ethical principles. One who combined sport with education and culture.

An Olympian in the truest sense of the word.

The oldest living Canadian Olympian, James Worrall, O.C., B.Sc., LL.B., Q.C. passed away this week at the age of 97.

We honour him.

Once an Olympian, always an Olympian.

Career Highlights:

1934 British Empire Games (Commonwealth Games), 120-yard hurdles, silver medalist
1936 Olympic Games, 110mH & 400mH
Assistant Chef de Mission, Team Canada (1948 & 1952 Olympic Games)
Canadian Olympic Association (COA), President (1964–1968); Canadian Olympic Committee (COC), Honorary Life President (1989)
Amateur Athletic Union of Canada, President (1951-1953)
National Advisory Council on Fitness and Amateur Sport (1963-1967)
International Olympic Committee (IOC), Member (1967-1989), Executive Board Member (1974-1979), Honorary Member (1989-2011)
Order of Canada (1976)
Canada Sports Hall of Fame (1987)
Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame (1991)