Allan Besson
Inducted 1996
Primary Outlet
Winnipeg Free Press
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Allan Besson graduated from St. John’s High School before attending Red River Community College, where he earned a diploma in graphic arts. He began his career at the Winnipeg Free Press in the composing room before leaving for a brief period. Upon returning, he took a job as a copy boy, and by the early 1970s had earned a summer reporting position in the sports department, a move that launched a career in journalism that would stretch 46 years.
Throughout his time at the Free Press, Besson became known for his wide-ranging sports coverage and unwavering dedication to amateur athletics. He developed a national reputation as one of Canada’s leading reporters on the Canada Games, and covered everything from the Olympic Games to local grassroots competitions. His passion for thoroughbred racing also stood out, earning him the Sovereign Award from the Jockey Club of Canada in 2007 and a second nomination in 2011.
In addition to his work in print, Besson was a constant presence in Manitoba’s amateur sports scene. He served on the board of the Manitoba Runners’ Association and supported the Manitoba Fencing Association with media and communications duties. He was also a familiar face at local tracks, gyms and rinks, always eager to tell the stories of athletes who rarely made headlines.
After retiring from the Free Press in 2011, Besson continued to serve his community. He volunteered with Prison Fellowship Canada, leading Bible studies at Stony Mountain Institution and offering mentorship and support to inmates. His post-retirement life reflected the same values he demonstrated in journalism: dedication, humility and care for others.
Besson’s legacy is defined by his journalistic excellence, deep respect for amateur sport and commitment to community service. His contributions helped elevate the profile of countless Manitoba athletes and inspired generations of reporters who followed in his footsteps.
Allan Besson was inducted into the Manitoba Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association Media Roll of Honour in 1996.
Throughout his time at the Free Press, Besson became known for his wide-ranging sports coverage and unwavering dedication to amateur athletics. He developed a national reputation as one of Canada’s leading reporters on the Canada Games, and covered everything from the Olympic Games to local grassroots competitions. His passion for thoroughbred racing also stood out, earning him the Sovereign Award from the Jockey Club of Canada in 2007 and a second nomination in 2011.
In addition to his work in print, Besson was a constant presence in Manitoba’s amateur sports scene. He served on the board of the Manitoba Runners’ Association and supported the Manitoba Fencing Association with media and communications duties. He was also a familiar face at local tracks, gyms and rinks, always eager to tell the stories of athletes who rarely made headlines.
After retiring from the Free Press in 2011, Besson continued to serve his community. He volunteered with Prison Fellowship Canada, leading Bible studies at Stony Mountain Institution and offering mentorship and support to inmates. His post-retirement life reflected the same values he demonstrated in journalism: dedication, humility and care for others.
Besson’s legacy is defined by his journalistic excellence, deep respect for amateur sport and commitment to community service. His contributions helped elevate the profile of countless Manitoba athletes and inspired generations of reporters who followed in his footsteps.
Allan Besson was inducted into the Manitoba Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association Media Roll of Honour in 1996.