The burden of carrying on a family legacy can be daunting. The newest members of a track and field dynasty from Swift Current faced initial challenges in embracing the sport. Jackson Tuplin, who initially disliked track as a young hockey player, along with his siblings Carter and Macey, struggled to find their footing in a sport deeply rooted in their family history.
Their perspective shifted during high school, leading Jackson and Carter to become the fourth generation of their family to compete in track and field at the University of Saskatchewan. The family’s involvement in the sport dates back to 1948 when their great-grandmother, Anne Mang, excelled in various track and field events. This legacy inspired subsequent generations to follow suit.
Cyndi Tasche, Mang’s daughter, reminisced about her mother’s achievements and how they influenced her own affinity for track and field. Under the tutelage of renowned coach Lyle Sanderson at the U of S, Cyndi began her coaching career, shaping the upbringing of her daughters Mandi, Lindsay, and Hillary in the sport.
Mandi, driven by her grandmother’s success, pursued her own track and field aspirations. The sport not only defined her athletic journey but also played a significant role in her personal life, leading to her meeting her husband, Emery Tuplin, through track and field. Emery also excelled in the sport, contributing to the success of the men’s team and fostering lasting friendships.
The couple’s shared passion for track and field extended to their coaching roles in Swift Current, with Mandi leading the high school track team to multiple provincial championships. Despite their own achievements, they encouraged their children to pursue their passions freely, ultimately witnessing Jackson and Carter excel in track and field competitions.
Looking ahead, the brothers aim to continue their family’s tradition by potentially giving back to the sport as teachers. As the current generation prepares to pass the baton, the legacy of the Tuplin family in track and field stands as a testament to hard work, dedication, and a shared love for the sport across four generations.