Saint Ralph 2005

Ralph Walker, a teenager grappling with his identity at a strict Catholic school in Hamilton, Ontario, is thrust into a harsh reality when he loses his father during World War II. To compound his troubles, his mother’s mysterious illness leaves her hospitalized, forcing him to confront the fragility of life. Known for his penchant for mischief, Ralph frequently clashes with his peers and earns the ire of headmaster Father Fitzpatrick, who discovers him indulging in forbidden acts such as smoking and other rebellious behaviors. Labeled a troublemaker, Ralph finds himself pressured into joining the school’s cross-country team to better channel his overflowing energy.

Tragedy strikes again when Ralph’s mother falls into a coma, and he learns that her survival relies on a miracle. Motivated by the inspiring yet retired running coach Father Hibbert, a former marathon champion sidelined by a knee injury, Ralph embarks on an ambitious quest to train for the Boston Marathon—a feat he believes could lead to the miracle needed to save his mother’s life.

At first, Ralph is stumbling and out of his depth, struggling to keep pace with the seasoned runners during practice sessions. However, his unwavering determination drives him to absorb every detail about running techniques, leading to gradual improvement. Father Hibbert, recognizing Ralph’s commitment, willingly takes him under his wing despite facing pushback from Father Fitzpatrick. As Ralph hones his skills, he gains the respect of his classmates and begins to attract media attention after triumphing in a notable regional race.

When Father Fitzpatrick discovers Ralph’s ambition to participate in the Boston Marathon, he threatens expulsion if Ralph competes and vows to revoke [Father Hibbert]‘s priesthood should he intervene. Faced with uncertainty, both Ralph and Father Hibbert must wrestle with their faith in the concept of miracles and weigh whether they should dare to chase the unattainable.

Against all odds, they choose to defy Father Fitzpatrick and set their ambitions high for Boston. The race culminates in an exhilarating finish, with Ralph narrowly securing second place, and as he stands solemnly beside his mother’s hospital bed, raising his hard-earned medal, she awakens from her coma, her future irrevocably altered by the extraordinary journey Ralph undertook.