Ernie McCullough

Ernie McCullough’s athletic career was probably cut short by World War II, in which he served with the Royal Canadian Navy from 1943 through 1945. Although he was involved in hockey, golf, and American football, it was his prowess in track and field that earned him a trip to the 1948 Summer Olympics, where, representing Canada, he took part in the 400 metres and the 4x400 metre relay. In the former he was eliminated in the opening heats after finishing third behind Les Lewis of Great Britain and Bjørn Vade of Norway. He was also eliminated in the opening round of the latter, alongside Bill LaRochelle and Don, and Bob McFarlane, after coming in third behind Jamaica and upcoming silver medalist France.

McCullough earned a degree in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame and spent over a decade working for the family business before deciding to return to school. He earned a PhD in philosophy from the University of Toronto and embarked upon an academic career that took him to several institutions in Canada and North Dakota. His final position was at St. Mary’s University in Calgary, where he became Professor Emeritus in 2010. As president of the Calgary Olympic Development Association he played an important role in bringing the Winter Olympics to that city in 1988.

Personal Best: 400 – 49.4 (1948).