Walter Riddell

Builder (1989)

Sports Journalist

Walt was born in Coburg, Ontario and came to Saskatoon in 1922. He joined the Star Phoenix as a reporter in April 1928, and in November was added to the sports staff. His love of sports was too strong even though he attained a law degree from the University of Manitoba in 1919. He worked in several editorial positions before retiring in 1962. He continued with the Star Phoenix, supervising provincial news copy and writing sport columns. His last column appeared in 1974. Four years later, Riddell died on February 3 at the age of 80.

Golf, curling and horse racing were his favorites. It was through his efforts that Saskatoon was selected to host the Canadian men's curling championship in 1946. In 1953 when Saskatoon hosted the Canada schoolboy championships, Walt was its chairman. In golf, he launched a high school competition and for 17 years was the draw master at the Lobstick tournament at Waskesiu. Walt was a member of the Saskatoon Exhibition Sports Committee from 1929 to 1968.

In 1968, Riddell was the Kinsmen Sportsman of the Year. He was named to the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame in 1976.

** Deceased