Calgary running community mourns loss of local retailer and ultrarunner
Few people have had as positive an effect on their community as Gord Hobbins
Photo by:
Mark Moland
The Calgary running community has lost one of its most dedicated and well-loved members with the passing of Gord Hobbins, who died on March 6. A lifelong runner, race organizer, mentor and business owner, Hobbins was the heart and soul behind Gord’s Running Store, which recently celebrated its 35th anniversary. Hobbins’s dedication caused the store to become more than a place that sold running gear—it was a hub for runners of all levels seeking advice, encouragement and camaraderie. Hobbins was 63.
Hobbins’s passion for the sport was evident in everything he did. Whether he was lacing up for his own races or supporting others in theirs, he had an incomparable presence in the running community. A formidable athlete in his own right, he won the inaugural Lost Soul Ultra 100-mile race in Lethbridge in 2000 and returned time and again, competing at least 12 times between 2000 and 2024. His love of trail and road racing extended beyond participation—he was a constant figure at local events, either running, volunteering or simply cheering others on. Hobbins was also the founder of the Frozen Ass 50, a winter ultra in Calgary that brought out a dedicated group of athletes every year, ready to run 50K or 25K in frigid temperatures, with his encouragement.
Dean Johnson, a fellow ultrarunner, coach and co-race director of Lost Soul Ultra, recalls how Hobbins could be found at nearly every race in the Calgary area, always ready to offer encouragement and share in others’ accomplishments. “You could see the joy on his face as he congratulated the finishers,” Johnson says.
Ron Bain, the original owner of the Runner’s Soul store in Lethbridge, remembers Hobbins’s generosity and expertise in the running industry. “He provided invaluable guidance, support and kindness, and it was always a great day when our paths would cross,” he says. “He was the go-to guy for all things running, and had the respect of everyone in the business.”
One of Hobbins’s signature phrases, “Have fun out there,” will live on in the spirit of those he inspired. Deb Firth, his friend and the creator of unique rock art awards for Lost Soul Ultra category winners, has chosen to inscribe those words on this year’s awards in his honour—a fitting tribute to a man who brought so much to the sport and the people in it.
Hobbins’s loss is deeply felt, but he has left a legacy in every race he helped shape, every runner he encouraged and every community he strengthened. On social media, an outpouring of appreciation for him followed the announcement of his death, with many people sharing stories about the ways he touched their lives in even the smallest interaction.
His family has requested privacy, and in accordance with their wishes, there will be no public funeral. Gord’s Running Store will remain open, as he would have wanted, though those visiting are asked to be mindful of the staff, who are also grieving.
For those looking to honour Hobbins’s memory, the family encourages a donation to a mental health or suicide prevention organization, or a running-related charity. And, perhaps most fittingly, they suggest simply going for a run.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, please reach out for help. In Calgary, call or text (403) 266-4357; in the Toronto area, contact CAMH at 988 or call or text (416) 408-4357.
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