Last week was exciting for Brainsport as it was honoured with a 2017 SABEX Award!
The award was given in recognition of Brainsport's commitment to bettering the community, which is evidenced in ways such as the gently-used shoe program, free Run Club, community-room use, the Gingerbread Run and Brainfreeze.
Brian and Lisette at the 2017 SABEX Awards gala, where Brainsport recieved the SABEX Award for Community Involvement. Photo supplied
In a short acceptance speech Brian told the audience three quick things: "One, we need your gently-used shoes because there are people in the community that need footwear. Two, if it's good for your business it's probably good for the community. And three, thanks for shopping locally."
Now on to this week's Q&A. We're speaking with Tarrant Cross Child today, who's coaching the Brainsport Academy's 10K course starting on February 20. Let's get to it!
Q&A with Tarrant Cross Child
Tara: For those considering signing up for this course, what can you say about the benefits of a training in this environment?
Tarrant: Prepare to have fun while being challenged. It's fine to train alone but there are many benefits of training in a group setting. You will get the accountability that's needed in order to succeed. All the while making lifelong friends and a lifelong love of running.
Tara: Is it possible to give us a rundown of what the course will cover?
Tarrant: The course will cover the basics of applying a healthy regime of running to any lifestyle. We all live busy lives and it's time to make time for ourselves. From proper footwear to running apparel, running efficiency to avoid injuries, nutrition, core stability and of course yoga. My Learn To Run group will know I'm a natural when it comes to yoga.
Tara: Are beginners and more experienced runners welcome?
Tarrant: Yes, all abilities are welcome. If you have the desire to complete the 10K distance then this is for you. The beauty of running is that it's an individual sport, so what ever level you are at you can bring it and I'll enjoy watching you grow and develop as your running improves.
Tarrant after racing the 2015 Saskatchewan Marathon. Photo supplied
Tara: What are you most excited about in terms of working with a group of 10K runners
Tarrant: I'm excited about meeting people who have decided to set a goal of running the 10K distance. It takes courage and discipline and I'll get to watch them succeed!
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Tarrant: You will not be disappointed. You bring the desire and willingness to learn and I'll bring the coaching. You will succeed, and as a bonus you will meet lifelong friends and start a healthy lifestyle of running. If 10K isn't for you there are other distances with great coaches that will help you!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Brainsport Running Academy - Spring Courses
Below are brief descriptions of this year's spring courses. For more information, including dates and registration go to:
Half Marathon Course:
Coached by Mike McKague, Tuesday nights at 6 p.m. starting February 14 for 15 weeks. It's not too late to sign up for this course. Mike is a longtime coach and motivator who will help you reach your running goals.
10k Course:
Coached by Tarrant Cross Child, this will be an engaging and interactive course. Tarrant will bring both his knowledge of running, and his personal desire to see people excel to the group. This course is designed to take you to a new level of running and is geared at the beginner and established runner. Tarrant will have a training program for everyone.
Learn To Run Course:
Coached by Cara Mazurak, the Learn To Run course is designed to accommodate those from a non-running background, or someone coming back to running after an extended time away. This is an 8-week course, which will culminate with a 5km race. The Learn to Run course will give you a solid foundation for your future running goals.
Virtual Pilates and Virtual Rides
For runners looking for some great recovery, strengthening, and cross-training options, Transition is now offering pilates and cycling from the comfort of your own home. These interactive live web-streamed classes are unique in that. if you choose to have your webcam Coach Carly can see you and correct technique and interact.
Join live: Pilates for Strength, Recovery and Injury Prevention (Monday nights 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. For more information click on the link. http://www.powhow.com/classes/transition-sport-and-fitness/pilates-for-strength-recovery-and-injury-prevention
For those with an at-home trainer Virtual Rides take place Sunday mornings. Click the link for more information.http://www.powhow.com/classes/transition-sport-and-fitness/virtual-ride-triathlon-training-winter-2017/313494
Brainsport Shoe Donation Program
The Brainsport Shoe Donation Program has received a request for basketball shoes. If you have gently-used basketball shoes please consider dropping them off at the store for donation. They will go a long way in making sure no child is left sitting on the bench because they don't have proper footwear.
Just Tri-It - Triathlon Training
Ladies, have you ever wondered what it would be like to do a triathlon? Are you looking for a fun and challenging spring training program? The Just Tri-it program gives you eight weeks - starting on March 19 - of swim, bike and run training, plus entry into the Makin It Happen Triathlon, where you can show off your new skills. Registration is now open, and it always sells out! Learn more and register click here.
Brainsport Brainfreeze
The 9th Annual Brainfreeze, in support of the U of S Cross Country Team, is set for Sunday March 5, 2017! This year there will be the addition of a 5K race, along with the 10K and half-marathon distances. Start time is 10 a.m. in front of Brainsport (also the finish). Register by going to www.brainsport.ca.
Breath Move Be - Yoga for Runners
Drop-in is available for 2017 classes. Contact Leanne, below, for more information.
Breath Move Be is back with more yoga for runners in the new year. Join in this runner-specific yoga class starting January 10 through February 28. Classes will be held at Namaskar Yoga Studio on Tuesday nights from 6:05 to 7:05. For more information and to register email Leanne at
Triathlon Training
Transition Sport and Fitness is offering Distance Group, or Personalized Coaching for anyone wanting to take their swim, bike, or run training to the next level.
Visit www.transitionsportandfitness.cafor more info on all programs.
Start2Finish
Every week, at one of Saskatoon's community schools, volunteers and children come together for a running and reading program called Start2Finish. The program aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing ongoing educational support to Saskatoon's at-risk children. You run, read, and share a word of the day with the group of kids. Start2Finish not only allows you the opportunity to give back to the community, and gain a rewarding experience, but also allows you to help children grow in a positive way. If you are interested in giving a couple hours of your time email
Product of the Week
New Balance Vazee Prism
Are you looking for a fast and supportive shoe? The Vazee Prism may be the fit for you! Its REVlite foam midsole provides lightweight responsive cushioning and a medial post adds a bit of extra stability. This is a quick shoe that can take you through training in comfort and even be used to race.
Thanks for reading the Times this week . . gotta run.