Percy Williams was the only child of Frederick Williams, who was originally from England, and Charlotte Rhodes, who hailed from St. John's, Newfoundland. At the age of 15, Williams suffered from rheumatic fever and was advised to avoid strenuous physical activities. However, as his high school required participation in athletic competitions, he started training in sprint in 1924 and by 1927 became a local champion.

• At the 1928 Olympic trials, Williams won the 100 and 200 metres races, equaling the Olympic 100 metres record of 10.6 seconds.

• To earn his travel ticket for the trials, Williams and his volunteer coach, Bob Granger, worked as waiters and dishwashers in a railroad dining car, and Vancouver track fans raised the money to pay Granger's transatlantic ship passage to the 1928 Olympics

Product Description

This captivating series of running singlets pays homage to the most iconic Canadian runners of the past 100 years. Each piece is meticulously crafted using a combination of paper and mixed media, including screen printing, pastels, acrylic paint, and colored pencils. Utilizing cougar cardstock and foam core, these singlets are designed to create a striking three-dimensional art piece that leaps off the canvas, embodying the spirit of the athlete who once wore each iconic singlet.

The vibrant colors and precise attention to detail make every piece distinctly unique, as each singlet is handcrafted with care—no two are exactly alike. The final artwork is visually engaging, casting beautiful shadows that breathe life into the creations. This series not only celebrates the legacy of these remarkable athletes but also serves as a testament to the artistry of running culture in Canada.