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Harry Jerome would've been damn proud of this Burnaby photo

The Harry Jerome Classic track and field meet was held Thursday in Burnaby at Swangard Stadium. If you don’t know anything about Harry Jerome, he was a legendary sprinter who represented Canada at three Olympics, winning bronze in 1964.
harry jerome
Runners, including Olympian Phylicia George, compete in the 100-metre sprint at the Harry Jerome Classic, held Thursday in Burnaby. JENNIFER GAUTHIER PHOTO

The Harry Jerome Classic track and field meet was held Thursday in Burnaby at Swangard Stadium.

If you don’t know anything about Harry Jerome, he was a legendary sprinter who represented Canada at three Olympics, winning bronze in 1964. At one point, he was the fastest man in the world.

But he was so much more than an athlete. He fought against racism and for the rights of people of colour, becoming an inspiration to generations of athletes.

So just look at the photo by NOW photographer Jennifer Gauthier that accompanies this short blog. Soak it in. Feel the power of these athletes at the height of their powers, including the woman in the centre, Ontario Olympian Phylicia George.

Just look at that stare,

I think Jerome would have been proud to see these women of colour competing, to see them flourishing in a tournament named after him.

Follow Chris Campbell on Twitter @shinebox44.