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Steve O’Brien inspires school perseverance

In an interesting convergence of events, the Virden Empire-Advance came upon a cross Canada tour personality, Steve O’Brien, pouring sweat on a hot and humid Monday, so far, as he met with a motorcycle-riding tourist who had just given O’Brien a dona

In an interesting convergence of events, the Virden Empire-Advance came upon a cross Canada tour personality, Steve O’Brien, pouring sweat on a hot and humid Monday, so far, as he met with a motorcycle-riding tourist who had just given O’Brien a donation for his cause. That cause – to inspire youth to complete their education and reach their goals.

Steve O’Brien, a retired sprinter, has reached heights, running the fastest time for Canada as a former member of Canada's Commonwealth Games team. In 2005, he was the world champion in the 400 metres at the World Olympics Masters Games. He returned home with three gold medals.

The motorcycle tourist who had just contributed to O’Brien’s foundation was from Edmonton, but not a stranger to Virden.

Brad McFadzean was quick to ownup, “I was born here, my Mum used to teach in Reston,” he said, adding that other family also lived in Virden. Travelling on his Kawasaki Vulcan, he was on his way to visit some friends at Oak Lake.

Having served in the military, McFadzean’s Canadian Armed Forces appliqué on his motorcycle jacket attracted the athlete’s attention and the two struck up conversation.

O’Brien, driven by enthusiasm, was making his way from Victoria, BC, heading to Newfoundland through a variety of self-propelled means. He had a bicycle, a long board (skateboard), a scooter, and in-line skates (and more), to make his way across Canada. Both travelers were subject to the elements, but the motorcyclist noted that O’Brien’s mode of transportation meant a lot of hard work.

“Yeah,” said the runner, “there’s been some tough days. But the last two days I’ve had the wind in my back. You have to take the good with the bad.”

Two years ago, the athlete had a hip replacement. He was told his ceramic joint would last 30 years. Less if he continues his athletic endeavours. O’Brien has been assisting youth on projects for over 25 years, encouraging and mentoring young people to fulfill their dreams. With a soft spot to help out others, he decided to start the Steve O’Brien Foundation. He has organized several fundraising events to raise money to assist and support local athletes, organizations and youth programs.

In the parking lot of Tim Hortons, O’Brien explains his tour “for school perseverance”. From his work with youth over the years he states, “What the youth need today is somebody to listen to them.

The experience I’ve had for the last fi ve years with special-ed kids; I’m there and I listen to them.” O’Brien’s own story is of an untrained athlete who had a spark that others fanned; his personal motto, which he truly lives by is, “hard work, determination and never give up”.

Born in Hawkesbury, Ontario, his energy and competitive spirit was encouraged by his mother. At the age of 22, sports coach Richard Crevier invited O’Brien into a competition to determine his potential; he won the 400 metres - without any training.

Years later, that coach, Richard Crevier, is travelling with the Cross Canada Steve O’Brien Foundation Tour, supporting the athlete in his cause. O’Brien had planned to visit all four schools in Virden on his way through.

He did make connections, and VJH Principal Mike Thiessen said O’Brien may be able to return in the fall to speak to the students.

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