Johnny Miles

Born in Yorkshire, England, Johnny Miles emigrated to Sydney Mines, Cape Breton Island when he was a young boy. His father was called to service in World War I, and Johnny supported the family by working in the mines as a mine trapper. When his father returned from Europe, Johnny attempted a boxing career, but quickly turned to running. He became best known for his exploits at the Boston Marathon where he was very popular after winning the race in his first attempt in 1926, defeating the favored 1924 Olympic champion, Albin Stenroos. He came back to win the race again in 1929, and ran in it from 1926-31. In the 1930 British Empire Games marathon he won the bronze medal. Prior to the 1929 race, Miles moved to Hamilton, Ontario, where he began a 43-year career with International Harvester. He eventually obtained an MBA degree, and headed up some of International Harvester’s operations in France, before returning to Hamilton as a division manager. Miles continued to attend the Boston race almost yearly in an honorary role, his final appearance coming in 1991 when he was 85-years-old. In 2002, Miles was honored by the University College of Cape Breton with an Honorary Doctorate of Laws Degree.

Personal Best: Mar – 2-33:08 (1929).