Al Howie

Al Howie, born on September 16, 1945, was a remarkable Canadian long-distance runner whose career spanned over two decades. He achieved extraordinary feats, winning more than fifty marathons, ultramarathons, and multiday races, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the world of endurance sports.

One of his most notable accomplishments was the 1991 Trans Canada Highway run, where he covered an astounding distance of 7295 kilometers in a record time of seventy-two days and ten hours. This monumental journey not only showcased his incredible stamina but also served a noble cause, as he raised seven hundred fifty thousand dollars for a fund dedicated to children with special needs. A brass plaque now commemorates this achievement at Victoria's Mile Zero marker.

Just two weeks after completing his cross-country run, Howie continued to impress by winning the Sri Chinmoy 1300 Miler in New York, where he improved upon his own world record time. Both the Trans Canada run and the 1,300-mile race earned him recognition in the Guinness Book of Records, solidifying his legacy in the annals of athletic history.

Howie's later years were spent in Duncan, B.C., where he lived from 2005 until his passing in 2016. Despite battling Diabetes I, he remained an inspiration to many. In recognition of his contributions to sportsmanship and excellence, the City of Duncan awarded him the Perpetual Trophy in December 2007, and in 2014, he was inducted into The Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame.