Bortolussi developed as an athlete and set his sights on competing in the Olympics. The start of World War II in 1939 put those dreams on hold, however, as Gino enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces. Many young athletes had their careers end when they enlisted, but war did not diminish Gino’s enthusiasm or competitive spirit.

He became the best Canadian Army sprinter for two years in a row, excelling in the 100- and 200-yard dashes and winning for his regiment, the 5th Division. The Powell River resident ran in the Aldershot meets against the best runners in the British Empire.