Avril Douglas

Avril did not begin running competitively until 1989. From 1989 to 2001 Avril held three world records and 12 Canadian records. As a single mom of two, Avril worked hard to look after her kids, work 12-hour shifts as a nurse and train.

Richmond Roots Avril has lived in Richmond since 1970 and began running for the Richmond Kajaks Track and Field Club in 1988. She is still active, both training and coaching youth in the Kajaks Track Rascals program.

Barriers Overcome Avril’s dedication and determination allowed her to compete and win despite injuries and racing after working night shifts at the hospital.

Recognition Avril was inducted into the Canadian Masters Hall of Fame in 2011 and has been named ‘BC Master Track and Field Athlete of the Year’ four times. She was the ‘Kajaks Outstanding Master Athlete’ seven times as well as the ‘BC Masters Road Running Master of the Year’.

Championship Avril has held three age world records: the 200m and 400m at age 55 and 800m at 47. She also held six Canadian records: the 200m, 400m , 800m and 1500m at age 47 and the one mile at age 45 and 50.

Contribution to Richmond Sport Avril introduced and started the Track Rascal program with the Kajaks Track and Field Club which she continues to coach. She also visited elementary schools to introduce Athletics Canada’s Run, Jump, Throw program to Richmond students.