Aileen Meagher, nicknamed “The Flying Schoolmarm” followed her dreams to become an Olympic athlete despite the opposition of her school and parents. Aileen’s passion for running began at Dalhousie University in 1931 as a part of the Dalhousie track team. As a result of her record breaking times for the 100 and 220yd events, she became a member of the 1932 Olympic team, but unfortunately injury prevented her from competing.

Aileen persevered through her injury and continued training and her first success came in 1934 when she won the Gold medal with the Canadian team in the 220-110-220-110 yard relay and a Silver medal in the 110-220-110 yard relay at the British Empire Games.  In 1935, Aileen was Canadian Athlete of the Year and the recipient of the Velma Springstead Trophy, presented annually to Canada's Outstanding Female Athlete.   Aileen won a Bronze medal at the 1936 Olympic Games in the 4x100m relay and in the 1938 British Empire Games received a Silver and Bronze medal for the 110-220-110yd and 220-110-220-110yd relay events. Aileen then retired from competition and became an accomplished artist.