Dr. Ronald Lappage's abilities as an amateur athlete have been exhibited in a variety of sports, however, it is in Judo and Wrestling where he truly leaves his mark.

Ron first became involved in Judo at the Dryden Judo Club at the age of 12. While attending Queen's University, Ron continued with his training, becoming Captain of the varsity Judo team in 1964 and went on to claim the Ontario College Judo Championship title that same year.

Moving on to the University of Alberta, Ron served as the varsity Judo Captain from 1966-70 and was a five-time Western Canadian Intercollegiate Heavyweight Judo champion. In 1967 Ron placed 3rd at the Canadian Judo championships and, in the same year, won the Canadian University Heavyweight and Open Weight crowns. Although unable to attend, he was selected to attend the World Student Games in Japan. From 1968-72 Ron dominated provincial competitions in Alberta, claiming five Light-heavyweight titles. By 1974 Ron had earned his 3rd degree Black belt (Sandan), the same year that he retired from provincial and national competition.

While at the University of Alberta Ron also became active in the sport of wrestling where he once again displayed outstanding accomplishments by winning University, Provincial and Canadian Championship titles. From 1968-72 Ron was the Alberta Provincial Wrestling Champion four times and from 1969-73, he competed in the Canadian Wrestling Championships and finished in the top three a total of 6 times. Winning the national crown in 1970 in the 198 lb. Greco-Roman class, he went on to represent Canada at the World Wrestling Championships.

Upon his retirement from active competition, Ron went on to coach Judo and wrestling and served as the Chairman of Judo Canada's Coaching Certification Committee, conducting Judo clinics in communities across northwestern Ontario.

Inducted into the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, September 28, 1987