On Friday, the second day of the 2026 Canadian Track & Field Championships in Ottawa, reigning world indoor champion Christopher Morales Williams surprised no one when he stormed smoothly to yet another 400m national title. The Vaughan, Ont., native has gone undefeated in the event since 2023, when he earned his first senior title at just 18. In a post-race interview, Morales Williams said the win was inspired by Canada’s 6-0 FIFA win again Qatar on Thursday night.
“I was watching the game, and it just got me super pumped for today,” he told Canadian Running post-race, holding a Team Canada jersey. “I’m a big soccer fan, and just seeing them win, go out there and do their thing, made me want to come out here and do my thing.”
Morales Williams ran fast even through driving rain, crossing the line in 45.58 seconds and finishing more than a second clear of the field. Toronto’s Felimon Henok took silver in 46.82 while Windsor, Ont.’s Kobie Warden grabbed bronze in 47.01.
Lauren Gale wins the senior women’s 400m at the 2026 Canadian Track and Field Championships.
Photo: Miles Ryan / Mundo Sport Images.
Two Ottawa natives win on home turf
On the women’s side, Friday’s 400m final marked a first senior national title for Ottawa’s own Lauren Gale. The 26-year-old is a two-time Olympian, having represented Canada at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, is a core member of Team Canada’s relay squads and holds the indoor national 200m record of 23.00. Gale, who represents the Ottawa Lions, also won the U20 national title in 2019.
“To do it in my hometown, on the track I’m at every single day, [makes it] even more special,” she said post-race.
Zachary Jeggo winning the U20 400m at the 2026 Canadian Track and Field Championships. Photo: Miles Ryan / Mundo Sport Images.
Fellow Ottawa native Zachary Jeggo successfully defended his U20 400m title, winning the junior race in 47.56. Last year, Jeggo earned double gold in the 400m and the 400m hurdles, and just completed his first year as a star athlete at Simon Fraser University.
See here for full results from the 2026 Canadian Track & Field Championships.