Jerome Drayton, a name that resonates with marathon excellence, has unfortunately departed from this world at the age of 80. Drayton, who left an indelible mark on marathon running in Canada and beyond, passed away in Toronto unexpectedly while undergoing knee surgery, as reported by leading sources. His journey from a young immigrant to a celebrated athlete is a testament to determination and passion.
Born Peter Buniak in Germany in 1945, Drayton immigrated to Canada in 1956, a journey that marked the beginning of an illustrious sports career. Embracing his new identity, he adopted the name Jerome Drayton, under which he would gain fame and recognition in the marathon world.
Drayton's athletic prowess was clearly evident when he clinched the North American marathon record at the 1969 Motor City Marathon in Detroit, completing the race in an impressive time of 2 hours and 12 minutes. This remarkable achievement set the tone for his future endeavors. He further solidified his status by setting a new record at the Fukuoka Marathon in Japan the same year, improving his time by 47 seconds.
His relentless dedication and skill saw him grace the podium at numerous prestigious events. In 1973, he claimed the national title at the Canadian Championship, followed by a third-place finish at the Boston Marathon in 1974. However, his defining moment came in 1977 when Drayton triumphed in Boston, making him the last Canadian man to win this esteemed race. His victory, under challenging conditions against a field including the legendary Bill Rodgers, remains a cherished memory for Canadian athletics.
Drayton's contributions extended beyond the track. He was not only the beacon of Canadian marathon victory but also a pioneer who paved the way for future generations. Boston Athletic Association President, Jack Fleming, acknowledged Drayton's influence and highlighted how his legacy has inspired countless athletes.
His accomplishments were not merely confined to marathons. In 1970, Drayton set a world record for the 10-mile run, clocking in at 46:37.6, showcasing his versatile talent. His participation in the 1976 Montreal Olympics solidified his position as Canada's top male marathoner of his time.
Drayton's remarkable career earned him a place in the Canada Sports Hall of Fame in 1978. Over his athletic journey, he accumulated 12 national titles and set 13 records, underscoring his dominance and consistency in the sport.
After retiring, Drayton continued to impact the sports community through his work as a consultant with the Sports and Fitness Division of Ontario's Ministry of Youth, Culture and Recreation. His dedication to the development of the marathon and keen interest in supporting emerging athletes were qualities that endeared him to many.
The story of Jerome Drayton is one of unwavering determination and passion for sport. His contributions to marathon running and the broader athletic community will be remembered for generations, inspiring future Canadian athletes to strive for excellence in both national and international arenas.