Dempsey Chisholm was born on October 5, 1899 in Antigonish County, Nova Scotia. Chisholm attended St. Francis Xavier University from 1922 to 1927, and during that time competed in track and field events. He was considered “ a natural athlete” who had an “innate athletic ability.” Chisholm became the Canadian champion in 1925 in the 440-yard dash and the 16-lb. hammer throw at the Dominion Championships in Halifax as well as placing second in the 220-yard dash.

In 1927, Chisholm won the Canadian championship, for the second time, in the hammer throw with a toss of 139.5 feet and also in the 440-yard dash. Chisolm had been chosen to represent Canada at the next Olympics but he declined the offer as he wanted to start his seminary studies. In 1931, he graduated and was ordained from St. Augustine’s Seminary.

After his retirement from competition, Chisholm went on to promote boxing bouts and build a playground on High Street. He also provided an outdoor rink for St. John’s Academy for students wanting to play hockey and rugby. Rev. Chisholm passed away on December 10, 1964, in St. Martha’s Hospital, Antigonish.