McBride’s Louella Long competed in the BC Seniors Games in August, and added two gold medals, one each in women’s singles and doubles in badminton, to her lifetime trophy haul.
Born in Tisdale, Saskatchewan, Long moved to Vancouver early in the war years. During the latter portion of her high school years she belonged to the Pacific Track Club and qualified as a 17 year old to be one of only seven female athletes to represent Canada at the Helsinki, Finland in the 1952 Olympics. There she competed in the 100 meter and 200 meter sprints, the 80 metre hurdles and the 4 x 100 m relay. She plays down her success but highlights her enjoyment of sports in general and her love of friendly competition.
On her return from Helsinki, Long entered the Nursing program in Vancouver and became friends with Ray Long’s sister. She took a job at the McBride Red Cross Hospital and ultimately married Ray. Now, 56 years later or ‘forever’ as she quipped, she continues to make her home in McBride and lives on a farm just east of the Village. The 500 acre farm is principally a cattle operation and keeps the family very busy.
The BC Seniors Games were held in Kamloops this year, with over 3000 senior athletes gathering to challenge one another in various events.
Long, through her love of sport and willingness to teach, continues to effuse others with her skill and enjoyment and continues to give back to her community. Congratulations and Best Wishes for continued success.
