Running: The Alex Decoteau Story

Inspired by the life of Alex Decoteau, this moving one-act play tells the tale of a Cree hero and running warrior. In 1911, in Edmonton, Alberta, he became Canada’s 1st aboriginal police officer, famous for chasing after speeding vehicles on foot to ticket them! A champion runner and popular figure, Decoteau raced for Canada at the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm, fought for Canada in World War I and was killed, in 1917, while running a message at the Battle of Passchendaele. He was only 29 years old.

The book includes an historical note, archival photographs, and a fascinating introduction to the play and the Alex Decoteau Run, which introduced Edmonton schoolchildren to this aboriginal role model.

Attention teachers: Appropriate for Grades 5 and up (9 years and older).