The following is being distributed at the request of The Rooms Corporation:

The Rooms opens new exhibit displaying historical boots

The Rooms today announced the opening of Going the Distance, The Achievements of Johnny Rowe, a temporary exhibit celebrating the accomplishments of Johnny Rowe, the first person to speed-walk across the Newfoundland portion of the Trans Canada highway in 1966. The exhibit marks the 40th anniversary of the completion of the highway and Mr. Rowe�s walk, while celebrating the life of this remarkable man.

As a teen, Mr. Rowe had been diagnosed with heart problems and was instructed not to participate in sports. However, despite warnings, Mr. Rowe took up boxing and quickly worked his way to the top of the Newfoundland pugilist scene. Looking for greater challenges, Mr. Rowe moved to Toronto where he worked his way up to national standings.

After his fighting career, Mr. Rowe concentrated his efforts on speed walking and, over four decades, he covered twice the circumference of the earth through charity walks that included walks from Montreal to Toronto and from Port aux Basques to St. John�s.

Penny Houlden, director of The Rooms Provincial Museum commented: �Mr. Rowe is a humble man whose great perseverance of spirit carried him through many trials. This exhibit is a tribute to a fine man who gave a great deal of himself over the years.�

MHA, Dave Denine, representing the premier, congratulated Mr. Rowe on his accomplishments and the opening of The Rooms exhibit celebrating his many achievements.

Going the Distance, The Achievements of Johnny Rowe will be on display at The Rooms from August 1 through September 30, 2006.

Media contact: Chrysta Collins, The Rooms, (709) 757-8091


2006 08 01                                        4:55 p.m.