Terry Fox’s replica three-stripe runners worn in his 1980 ‘Marathon of Hope’ to be released

The classic three-stripe Adidas runners that Terry Fox wore during his Marathon of Hope in 1980. (Terry Fox Exhibit)

In 1980, a 21-year-old from Port Coquitlam, British Columbia set out on one of the most courageous journeys in Canadian history.

With one prosthetic leg, an inspiring mission, and a pair of Adidas Orion running shoes, Terry Fox began his Marathon of Hope. After losing his right leg to cancer at age 18, Terry set out from St. Johns Newfoundland, on April 12, 1980 to tackle 5,373 kilometres in just 143 days.

Now, 45 years later, that legacy continues. To mark the anniversary of the Canadian inspiration, a global leader in the sporting goods industry, Adidas is re-releasing the same iconic running shoe Terry wore during his nationwide telethon: the Adidas Orion.

The symbolic shoe features a navy blue and white design, accented with gold “Terry Fox” lettering and commemorative shoelaces - nearly similar to the pair Terry ran in.

“It’s heart-warming to see Canadians across the country continue to resonate with Terry’s legacy more than 45 years later,” said Fred Fox, Terry’s older brother. “We hope that these shoes will serve as an inspirational reminder that it’s up to all of us to finish the marathon against cancer that Terry started.”

The sneaker will be available for purchase at adidas.ca starting July 3. All proceeds will go directly towards supporting life-changing cancer research across the nation, according to Adidas.

The Orion was last re-released in 2020 for the 40th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope, it quickly became one of Adidas Canada’s most celebrated product launches.

The return of the shoe is expected to be just as impactful - not just as a collector’s item, but as a symbol of resilience and unity.

On September 14, the 45th annual Terry Fox Run kicks off across the country. Participants who register and secure 45 sponsors will be entered into a draw to win a pair of the limited-edition shoes.

Promoting the Terry Fox spirit all year long is a local charity organization in Barrie. To ‘team up for Terry’ and embark on the run which takes place annually in our region, click here.

People around the world of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities have been inspired by Terry’s enduring legacy. Through the generous support, the Terry Fox Foundation says they have raised more than $950 million and funded over 1,300 innovative cancer research projects, bringing hope to millions of Canadians.