Tom Longboat

Tom Longboat, born on June 4, 1887, on the Six Nations Reserve near Brantford, Ontario, is an enduring symbol of perseverance, skill, and excellence in the annals of sports history. An Onondaga distance runner, Longboat’s remarkable achievements on the track, both as an amateur and professional, combined with his tenacity in the face of racial prejudice, solidified his reputation as one of the greatest marathon runners of all time.

In 1955, Tom Longboat became the first Indigenous athlete inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame (Canadian Sports Hall Of Fame).


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Early Life and Introduction to Running

Hailing from the Onondaga Nation, Tom grew up on the Six Nations Reserve. His talent for running was recognized early on. As a youngster, his daily commute to the residential school – a run of several miles – became an informal training ground. His innate prowess led him to local races, and it was evident from the onset that he was no ordinary runner.

The Boston Marathon and a Rise to Fame

The Boston Marathon: A Historic Victory

In 1907, the city of Boston witnessed an athletic feat that would be etched in the annals of marathon history. As runners took to the streets for the famed Boston Marathon, few anticipated the tour de force that was about to unfold. Among the competitors was a relatively unknown Indigenous runner from Canada, Tom Longboat. But by the end of the race, he wouldn’t just be another participant; he would be a legend.

With every mile, Longboat showcased a blend of stamina and speed that seemed superhuman. As he crossed the finish line, the clock revealed the magnitude of his achievement: 2 hours, 24 minutes, and 24 seconds. This wasn’t just a win; it was a decimation of the previous record, besting it by a staggering five minutes. In an era without modern training techniques, specialized running gear, or dietary plans, this accomplishment was nothing short of revolutionary.

The global athletic community took notice. News of the Onondaga runner from the Six Nations Reserve who had dominated one of the world’s most prestigious marathons spread far and wide. Tom Longboat was no longer just a runner; he was the embodiment of excellence in the sport of marathon running.

Challenges Off the Track

Yet, Longboat’s meteoric rise in the world of athletics was not met with universal celebration. The early 20th century was a period marked by deep-seated racial prejudices, and the idea of an Indigenous man not just participating, but dominating a predominantly white sport, was hard for many to digest.

The media, a powerful influencer of public opinion, was often complicit in perpetuating these biases. Rather than celebrating his achievements, many media outlets chose to focus on Longboat’s heritage, casting doubt on his training methods and portraying them as “primitive” or “unconventional.” The fact that he sometimes took rest days, instead of the then-popular belief in daily grueling workouts, became a point of contention.

These prejudices extended beyond just the media. The sports community, too, struggled to accept an Indigenous athlete who dared to challenge the status quo not only in his racing but also in his training. The challenges Longboat faced were not just on the track but in the society that often viewed him through a lens clouded by prejudice.

In the face of all these challenges, Longboat’s achievements shine even brighter. He wasn’t just racing against competitors; he was challenging societal norms and prejudices, paving the way for future generations of athletes from all backgrounds.

Turning Professional and Legendary Rivalries

The Decision to Turn Professional

After his groundbreaking victory at the Boston Marathon in 1907, Tom Longboat became a sensation in the running world. However, with fame came differences in opinions. Conflicts arose between Longboat and his managers over his training methods and race schedules. Tom’s belief in his unorthodox training, which he credited for his success, often clashed with the conventional wisdom of the day.

It was against this backdrop of disagreements that Longboat made a pivotal decision in 1909: to leave the amateur ranks and step into the world of professional racing. This decision was not taken lightly. While the professional circuit offered the promise of monetary rewards, it also meant forgoing the honor and prestige associated with amateur titles and the Olympics.

The Legendary Rivalry: Longboat vs. Shrubb

In the professional realm, Longboat soon found himself up against some of the best runners of the era. But none would be as memorable as his matchups with Alf Shrubb, the English middle-distance and long-distance running champion.

Alf Shrubb, already a legend in his own right, had set multiple world records and was a force to be reckoned with on the track. When news broke of races between Shrubb and Longboat, it captured the imagination of the public. These were not just races; they were clashes of titans.

Their showdowns became major events, akin to today’s high-profile boxing matches or football derbies. Massive crowds gathered, with spectators traveling from afar to witness these two legends compete. The atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation and excitement. Every stride, every move was watched closely, as spectators debated strategies and predicted outcomes.

What made their races truly legendary was the sheer competitiveness. Neither was willing to give an inch. They pushed each other to the brink, with races often being decided by mere seconds. The respect between the two was evident, but so was the burning desire to win.

Legacy of the Rivalry

The Longboat-Shrubb rivalry is remembered not just for the races themselves, but for what they represented: a clash of styles, training philosophies, and national pride. Their races were more than just competitions; they were narratives of perseverance, strategy, and athletic brilliance. They symbolized the pinnacle of professional running during that era and remain etched in sports history as some of the most exciting and closely-contested battles on the track.

World War I and Beyond the Track

With the onset of WW I, Longboat, like many others, was drawn into the conflict. But his role was unique. Given his exceptional running capabilities, he served as a dispatch runner for the Canadian army. It was a dangerous role, requiring him to deliver messages between military posts, often traversing treacherous and enemy-laden terrains. His service was a testament to his courage and sense of duty, further amplifying his stature not just as an athlete but as a true Canadian hero.

Legacy and Recognitions

Longboat’s contributions went beyond his race victories. He was a trailblazer, breaking racial barriers and setting a precedent for future Indigenous athletes. His legacy is preserved through various honours and recognitions.

In 1951, the Tom Longboat Awards were instituted. These are conferred annually to the top male and female Indigenous athletes in Canada, serving as a constant reminder of his lasting impact on Canadian sports and the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame. More recently, in 2008, Canada Post issued a commemorative postage stamp, immortalizing Longboat and ensuring his story would continue to inspire generations.

After his athletic career, Tom Longboat settled in Toronto. He worked for the city until his retirement, maintaining a relatively low-profile life, away from the limelight that once shone brightly on him. On January 9, 1949, Longboat passed away, but his legacy as an athlete and a symbol of resilience remained.

Tom Longboat FAQ

In a world that often questioned his identity and methods, Tom Longboat stood tall, letting his feats speak for themselves. His journey from the Six Nations Reserve to the world stage is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Through adversities, both on and off the track, Longboat showcased resilience, skill, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As we reflect on his life and contributions, it’s evident that Tom Longboat was more than just an athlete; he was a beacon of hope and a true Canadian icon.

How Did Tom Longboat Train?

Tom Longboat’s training methods were considered unorthodox for his time and attracted both admiration and criticism. Here are some aspects of his training:

  1. Alternating Hard Days with Easy Days: Longboat believed in varying his training intensity. Instead of consistently hard daily training, he would have rigorous workout days followed by lighter training or rest days. This approach allowed his body to recover and is, interestingly, consistent with many modern training philosophies which advocate for the benefits of rest and recovery.
  2. Natural Setting: Longboat often preferred training in natural settings. He would run long distances in the countryside, using the varied terrain as a challenge to improve his stamina and strength.
  3. Independence: Tom resisted the conventional coaching methods of the day. He often clashed with his managers and coaches because he believed in listening to his own body and setting his own training regimen.
  4. Building Endurance: Longboat focused on building his endurance, often running longer distances than the actual race length in practice. This endurance training prepared him physically and mentally for the challenges of the marathon and long-distance events.
  5. Intuitive Approach: Part of what made Longboat’s training style unique was his intuitive approach. He didn’t strictly adhere to a fixed regimen but adjusted based on how he felt.

While his methods were sometimes scrutinized and questioned by the media and the sports community, Longboat’s impressive results spoke for themselves. His training approach, emphasizing rest and recovery, and his intuitive understanding of his own body, are now recognized as ahead of his time and are in many ways aligned with contemporary understandings of athletic training.

What was Tom Longboat Famous For?

Tom Longboat was famous for being one of the greatest marathon runners of his time. He is particularly renowned for his victory in the 1907 Boston Marathon, where he set a record by completing the race in 2 hours, 24 minutes, and 24 seconds, breaking the previous record by a significant margin.

An Onondaga from the Six Nations Indian reserve near Brantford, Ontario, Canada, Longboat’s successes were groundbreaking and provided inspiration, especially considering the racial prejudices he faced as an Indigenous athlete. In addition to his athletic prowess, he also became a symbol of perseverance and triumph for Indigenous Canadians.

Did Tom Longboat Serve in World War 2?

Tom Longboat served in the First World War as a dispatch runner for the Canadian Army. Given his exceptional running skills, he delivered messages between military posts, often under dangerous conditions on the battlefront.

However, there is no record of Tom Longboat serving in World War II. By the time WW II started in 1939, Longboat would have been in his early 50s, which is beyond the typical age range for frontline service.

How Far Did Tom Longboat Run?

Tom Longboat is best known for his long-distance running, particularly in marathons. The most iconic of these is the Boston Marathon, which is approximately 42.195 kilometres (or about 26.219 miles) long. Longboat won the Boston Marathon in 1907 with a record-breaking time.

In addition to the Boston Marathon and other competitive races, during World War I, Longboat served as a dispatch runner for the Canadian Army. In this role, he would have run varying distances to deliver messages between military posts, often under challenging and dangerous conditions. However, the specific distances he ran as a dispatch runner are not well-documented.

Over his career, Longboat participated in numerous races of varying distances, but his specialty and primary recognition came from long-distance and marathon events.

Is There a Tom Longboat Day?

Yes, there is a Tom Longboat Day. In Ontario, Canada, “Tom Longboat Day” is officially recognized on June 4th, the date of Longboat’s birth. The day was established to honor Tom Longboat’s outstanding achievements as a long-distance runner and his contributions as a symbol of perseverance and success, especially in the face of adversity and prejudice. The commemoration serves as a reminder of Longboat’s legacy and his influence as a trailblazing Indigenous athlete in Canadian sports history.

Tom and the World’s Professional Marathon Championship

The World’s Professional Marathon Championship in the early 20th century was one of the premier long-distance running events for professional athletes. It attracted top talent from around the world. Tom Longboat’s involvement in these races further cemented his status as one of the era’s elite runners.

After turning professional post-1907, following disagreements with his managers and a desire for better financial remuneration, Longboat set his sights on the lucrative professional circuit. The World’s Professional Marathon Championship provided a platform for Longboat to showcase his prowess against other top professional runners.

One of the most notable races involving Tom Longboat in this championship took place in 1909 against Alf Shrubb, the famed English long-distance runner. The race was held at Madison Square Garden in New York. Billed as a contest between the best of Britain and the best of the Empire, it generated significant buzz. Longboat and Shrubb faced off in a series of races, but the most anticipated was the 15-mile match. Longboat triumphed, setting a record in the process.

These races were more than mere athletic competitions; they were significant events, drawing large crowds and considerable betting action. The results of such races could significantly impact a runner’s reputation and earning potential.

Tom Longboat’s participation and successes in the World’s Professional Marathon Championships not only added to his list of accolades but also provided validation for his decision to turn professional. His achievements in these championships solidified his legacy as one of the greatest long-distance runners of his time.

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