Russell Twining Ward was from a large sporting family in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Known as Rusty, Ward was a champion bicycle racer.

Bicycle racing in Halifax was popular until World War I, and, during the sport’s glory days, there were many sensational races on the Wanderers Grounds and at the Nova Scotia Exhibition Track (now the site of the Halifax Forum).

Ward was a fan favourite and he, along with Jack McKenna and Chummie Murray, were always known to put on a good race for the crowds.