Beth Wightman
Women’s Cross-Country
Beth Wightman was the star of stars in the Gaels stable this year. Wightman managed to win the 3,000-metre, the 1,500-metre and the five-kilometres cross-country events. Wightman won the cross-country title by 14 seconds, which is an eternity, in cross-country running.
Her most impressive showing of the year was her performance in the track and field championships. Here she elevated her status beyond that of mere mortal by showing that she has no equal in Canadian University track and field circuits. Wightman was in control of the race when she was ed with 600 metres to go. At this point Wightman, like a good sports car, proved she had an extra gear and accelerated into the lead for the remainder of the race. Wightman won the athlete of the week award an unprecedented three times, establishing a season record. She appears to be a favourite for post-season awards and don’t be surprised if her name is a fixture at the podium during Colours night. Wightman also represented Canada at the FISU games. Wightman came in 31st, just one minute off the lead.
Wightman is graduating this year and her legacy will long be ed.
Tommy Denison
Men’s Football
The Tommy gun was all-world once again, winning the Hec Creighton trophy for the second year in a row. Denison used his unmatched arm strength and excellent mobility to lead the Gaels into national contention. Unfortunately for Denison and the team, the Gaels fell to Laurier in the OUA semi-finals, ending a storied career for an all-time great. Denison recorded a 105.51 er rating and more than 3,400 yards through the air. He proved he has the mobility to make him a threat on the ground, running for more than 220 yards, averaging almost five yards a carry. The touchdown maker also recorded three rushing scores. It was a great comfort for the Gaels knowing they had the most feared weapon in the CIS on their side every time they stepped onto the pitch.
Most astounding was Denison’s ball control. He was only picked off nine times all season, meaning that he rarely put the defence in a tough position. Denison recently signed a contract with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, giving him a chance to be one of the first products of the CIS to make it in the CFL as a field general since 1968. Denison has left a golden legacy that will be recorded among the greatest in CIS history.
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