Canada has produced numerous exceptional athletes who have made their mark on the global sports stage. Among them, Bruce Robertson stands out as a distinguished swimmer and an influential figure at the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF). 

Robertson's contributions have been instrumental in shaping the organisation's trajectory. After an impressive 28-year tenure, Robertson will be stepping down at the upcoming General Assembly, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable achievements.

As a competitive swimmer, Bruce's achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. He secured 16 medals for Canada in international competitions, with his inaugural major event being the 1972 Munich Olympics. In that competition alone, he participated in seven events, ultimately clinching a silver medal in the 100-meter butterfly behind America's Mark Spitz.

At the 1974 Commonwealth Games, he was the most decorated Canadian athlete, winning a total of six medals. His stellar performance showcased his prowess in the pool and solidified his status as a leading figure in Canadian swimming.

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In recognition of his athletic accomplishments, Bruce was named Canada’s Male Athlete of the Year in 1973, a testament to his outstanding contributions to Canadian sports. A year later, he was awarded the Order of Canada, a prestigious honour reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to the country.

Retiring from competitive swimming in 1977, Robertson returned to Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia and continued to swim on the varsity team while earning a Bachelor of General Studies degree. 

He later became a certified chartered accountant and a successful independent consultant, and settled in Manotick, Ontario, after spells working in Germany and Toronto. Robertson continued to swim at the master’s level and became involved in sports administration. 

Bruce Robertson at the 2023 CGF General Assembly with his wife Sheila

has been actively involved with Commonwealth Sport Canada (CSC) for over 30 years as a Member-at-Large, Treasurer, Vice President, and as President of the Commonwealth Games Foundation of Canada - a body established within CSC with the aim of raising funds to support Canadian athletes and officials attending the Commonwealth Games. These roles led Bruce to being appointed to the CGF board, holding various significant roles during his tenure as a Executive Board member including chair of the CGF Audit and Risk Committee, CGF Sport Committee and CGF Coordination Commission, making a significant contribution to the CGF Legacy framework and for the last eight years, CGF Vice President.

Like all good leaders, Bruce has always been willing to share his knowledge and expertise, and Claire Carver-Dias, President of Commonwealth Sport Canada, will always be grateful for his guidance and support.

“Bruce has been a font of information and wisdom for me in my first year as President of Commonwealth Sport Canada," said Carver-Dias.

"His institutional knowledge is unparalleled, and he has always made himself available to listen and to help. 

"We are all indebted to him for his decades of involvement in, contributions to, and passion for the Commonwealth Sport Movement.”

While his long list of accomplishments is impressive, what stood out for Carver-Dias was his commitment and dedication to his responsibilities – the way he handled himself was the mark of the man.

"He was thorough and he took care. He took his duty towards the CGF and the movement to heart, and it showed."

Bruce's influence at the CGF and the broader sporting community has been considerable and in recognition of his services over the years he has been awarded the Order of Canada and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal.

His contributions have not only elevated the Federation's standing within the international sports arena but have also inspired a new generation of athletes and leaders to uphold the highest standards of excellence.

As Bruce Robertson prepares to step down from his role at the CGF, he leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary accomplishments. A steadfast commitment to the values of sportsmanship, inclusivity, and athlete empowerment has marked his 28 years of dedicated service to the Commonwealth Games Federation. Thank you for your service Bruce.