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Brainsport Times Mar. 30, 2016
If you have ever thought about joining one of our Learn To Run courses, the Brainsport Running Academy is presenting an opportunity you won't want to miss — with coach Dave Stark.
This course will provide an ideal environment for those who are looking to start their running journey, or maybe pick it up again after years away. Dave has a remarkable story of his own as a runner, which we'll learn more about in this week's Q&A.
Q&A with Dave Stark
Tara: You've been running for 34 years, and for 14 of those you've served on the Board of Directors for the Saskatoon Road Runners Association. You're very well known here in the running community, but I'm not sure people know a lot about your coaching experience. Would you mind telling us more about it?
Dave: I was treated for prostate cancer nearly five years ago. As soon as possible after my surgery and as much as possible during my subsequent eight weeks of daily radiation treatments, I tried to keep running. My surgeon and oncologist both approved, agreeing with me in my belief that my immune system would be boosted and I'm sure it was. Brian and Ian at Brainsport approached me, thinking that all of this experience could be somewhat inspirational to beginning runners and that I'd be a good Learn To Run coach. I've always enjoyed teaching and essentially coaching, as I had done it for years in my profession. I jumped at the opportunity and the clinic we're starting next week is my fifth. They've been a lot of fun and very rewarding.
Tara: What are you hoping participants of the Learn To Run course will take away from their experience with you?
Dave: Each week, I run three or four times and almost always with my running pals — an eclectic bunch. We laugh, tell some lies, share happy and sad times, we’ve even shared some tears. It's all very cathartic and thoroughly enjoyable. I certainly did my share of solo running, especially while training for marathons, but now that I've put the really long runs of marathon training behind me, I don't think I could even run alone — or at least not very often. Running has become a very happy thing for me and while some days are better than others, there are very few bad ones. I hope to share that experience with the Learn To Run course participants. There is real happiness and satisfaction out on the running trails!
Dave taking on the 2016 Brainsport Brainfreeze.
Tara: Do you have any words of encouragement to those who would like to sign up, but have reservations because they have never run in a group setting, or organized clinic?
Dave: I started running with Brainsport about 20 years ago and I was very nervous my first time stepping into the store and heading out the door for my first run. Let me say simply: nervousness with any new endeavour is normal, of course, but with this group, it will dissipate quickly. A warmer and more welcoming group, Learn To Run participants will not find!
Tara: What are you most looking forward to about the coaching this course?
Dave: Many participants are exchanging a bad habit for a good activity when they join the course (I quit smoking and started running). The most rewarding thing I see is the pride, sense of extreme accomplishment and pure emotion I see at the completion of the eight week program. This is especially true when there's a target race involved and the participants enter it, as they're encouraged to do. Brainsport usually tries to set up the clinic so there is a target race and this year, it's the 5K event in the 38th Saskatchewan Marathon, on May 28. I'll be there at the finish line, cheering and congratulating the new runners at the completion of their event. It's a real thrill for me to see this and be part of it.
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Dave: It's really a very courageous thing the participants are doing — making the commitment toward a lifestyle change in becoming a runner. I do feel that long-time Runner's World contributor and author, John "the Penguin" Bingham expressed it best when he said, "The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start".
UPCOMING EVENTS
Brainsport Running Academy
Learn to Run with David Stark - Take the first steps towards a lifetime of running with our beginner course. Start with a brisk 30 minute walk and progress in 8 weeks to a continuous 30 minute run. the course includes a souvenir tech shirt and our Speaker's Series after the workout. $90 Wednesday nights at 6 p.m., starting on April 6. To sign up go tohttp://www.brainsport.ca/running-academy.htmll or drop by Brainsport.
NB Run Crew — New Balance running group
NB Run Crew meets every Thursday at 7 p.m. at New Balance Saskatoon. Always free and open to all levels. The group runs every week from April 14 to June 9. This group is led by the girls of Black Dove Healthy Eats(Saija Shearer & Madison Heise) and will finish at the 5K event at the Mogathon on June 12! For more information check out NB's Facebook page.
19th Annual Zoo Run
Sunday, April 24 is the 19th Annual Zoo Run. Saskatoon's most unique running course featuring a 5K fun run or 2.5K walk through the winding roads and trails of the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo. The event is a fundraiser for the Saskatoon Zoo Society to support their environmental education programs. Participants receive a souvenir T-shirt (they are tech shirts this year), post run cinnamon buns and refreshments, a chance at some cool draw prizes, and admission to the zoo for the day. Entry forms are available at Brainsport. You can enter on-line or drop your completed entry form at Brainsport. Early registration deadline is April 15. For more information or online registration visit http://saskatoonzoosociety.ca/event/zoorun/ or call Greg Fenty at 306-975-3042.
Brainsport is introducing a fun new event for you this spring! Come join us for a beautiful run along the shore of Lake Diefenbacker on May 14. Take part in either the 5K or 10K fun run and enjoy refreshments and entertainment afterward. For more details go to: http://www.brainsport.ca/events.
Club NB — New Balance walking group
Club NB is the New Balance Saskatoon walking group where you can enjoy a social walk at a light intensity. The group meets at the New Balance store on Broadway every Wednesday at 11 a.m. from April 13 to June 8. Club NB is suitable for all activity levels.
This group is led by NB Ambassador Carol Keesey and will finish at the 5K event at the Mogathon on June 12! Check out NB's Facebook page for more details.
Transition is also hosting a Triathlon Clinic focused on run form, recovery techniques, core, and equipment ("The Nice to Have vs. Need to Have"). The clinic will take place this Saturday March 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m at Lakewood Park/Indoor. Click here to register online.
38th Saskatchewan Marathon
As you set your training goals for spring, don't forget to register by April 30 2016 for best prices! Don't worry you can always switch your race if you exceed or fall short of your training goals!
The 2016 Saskatchewan Marathon taking place May 29 2016 features 5K, GoodLife Fitness 10K, Half-Marathon and Marathon event distances along a scenic course highlighting the world-renowned Meewasin Valley through the city of Saskatoon. Easily deemed one of the most scenic running events in Canada, the Saskatchewan Marathon is also a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.
Register today at http://saskmarathon.ca/races/.
Eston River Trek
The 14th annual Eston River Trek will be held on Saturday, May 14. This event has plenty of distance options including a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, full marathon and a 40 mile trek (walking challenge). For more information visit http://www.eston.ca/rivertrek.
YIN/Restorative Yoga Workshop
Join BreatheMoveBe for a 2 hour workshop on Wednesday, June 1 from 6:15 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. at the Brainsport Community Room.
A yoga class that is specifically restorative in design uses props to support the body to encourage relaxation as well as enabling the student to receive the benefit of poses without engaging the muscles, the props do the work, we receive the benefit. $35 registration fee. Space is limited. Register today by contacting Leanne atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or text - 306-251-2964.
Yoga For Runners Spring Tune Up
This class is now full, but there are possible drop-in options. Text the number below.
Come out for some runner specific yoga. Yoga is a great compliment to running and can help
keep you running injury free! Starting Wednesday, April 6 to May 25. From 7:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at the Brainsport Community Room.Space is limited and fills up fast. To register contact Leanne via email atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or text - 306-251-2964.
Weekly Triathlon Training for Women
Just Tri-it Saskatoon has classes starting on March 20. Gain confidence and experience to complete your first super sprint triathlon. Program’s focus is on a fun, friendly, and safe atmosphere. Women only. March 20 – May 15. Swim is Sunday mornings - Bike is Monday evenings - Run and Information session is Thursday evenings. Limited spots so register soon! For more information or to register visit: www.justtri-it.com.
Rock Your Run Contest
To celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Brainsport Running Club we are excited to announce the Rock Your Run contest. Brooks shoes is sending one lucky run club member to run the Las Vegas Marathon this fall.
There are several ways to enter: 1) Every time you lead a group at Run Club you get an entry. 2) All new Run Club members will get an entry. 3) Everyone who comes out to our July 13 anniversary Run Club gets and entry. In order to win you must be present for the draw on July 13. The prize is a trip for two to Las Vegas. Air, hotel and race entry included. Hope to see you at Run Club!
Saskatoon Police Service Half Marathon
The 2016 Saskatoon Police Service Half Marathon will be held on May 1 at 8 a.m at police headquarters. For more information and to register go to: https://saskatoonpoliceservicefoundation.org/events/2016-half-marathon/.
PRODUCT OF THE WEEK
Thanks for reading the Times this week . . .gotta run . . . Tara
This course will provide an ideal environment for those who are looking to start their running journey, or maybe pick it up again after years away. Dave has a remarkable story of his own as a runner, which we'll learn more about in this week's Q&A.
Q&A with Dave Stark
Tara: You've been running for 34 years, and for 14 of those you've served on the Board of Directors for the Saskatoon Road Runners Association. You're very well known here in the running community, but I'm not sure people know a lot about your coaching experience. Would you mind telling us more about it?
Dave: I was treated for prostate cancer nearly five years ago. As soon as possible after my surgery and as much as possible during my subsequent eight weeks of daily radiation treatments, I tried to keep running. My surgeon and oncologist both approved, agreeing with me in my belief that my immune system would be boosted and I'm sure it was. Brian and Ian at Brainsport approached me, thinking that all of this experience could be somewhat inspirational to beginning runners and that I'd be a good Learn To Run coach. I've always enjoyed teaching and essentially coaching, as I had done it for years in my profession. I jumped at the opportunity and the clinic we're starting next week is my fifth. They've been a lot of fun and very rewarding.
Tara: What are you hoping participants of the Learn To Run course will take away from their experience with you?
Dave: Each week, I run three or four times and almost always with my running pals — an eclectic bunch. We laugh, tell some lies, share happy and sad times, we’ve even shared some tears. It's all very cathartic and thoroughly enjoyable. I certainly did my share of solo running, especially while training for marathons, but now that I've put the really long runs of marathon training behind me, I don't think I could even run alone — or at least not very often. Running has become a very happy thing for me and while some days are better than others, there are very few bad ones. I hope to share that experience with the Learn To Run course participants. There is real happiness and satisfaction out on the running trails!
Dave taking on the 2016 Brainsport Brainfreeze. Tara: Do you have any words of encouragement to those who would like to sign up, but have reservations because they have never run in a group setting, or organized clinic?
Dave: I started running with Brainsport about 20 years ago and I was very nervous my first time stepping into the store and heading out the door for my first run. Let me say simply: nervousness with any new endeavour is normal, of course, but with this group, it will dissipate quickly. A warmer and more welcoming group, Learn To Run participants will not find!
Tara: What are you most looking forward to about the coaching this course?
Dave: Many participants are exchanging a bad habit for a good activity when they join the course (I quit smoking and started running). The most rewarding thing I see is the pride, sense of extreme accomplishment and pure emotion I see at the completion of the eight week program. This is especially true when there's a target race involved and the participants enter it, as they're encouraged to do. Brainsport usually tries to set up the clinic so there is a target race and this year, it's the 5K event in the 38th Saskatchewan Marathon, on May 28. I'll be there at the finish line, cheering and congratulating the new runners at the completion of their event. It's a real thrill for me to see this and be part of it.
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Dave: It's really a very courageous thing the participants are doing — making the commitment toward a lifestyle change in becoming a runner. I do feel that long-time Runner's World contributor and author, John "the Penguin" Bingham expressed it best when he said, "The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start".
UPCOMING EVENTS
Brainsport Running Academy
Learn to Run with David Stark - Take the first steps towards a lifetime of running with our beginner course. Start with a brisk 30 minute walk and progress in 8 weeks to a continuous 30 minute run. the course includes a souvenir tech shirt and our Speaker's Series after the workout. $90 Wednesday nights at 6 p.m., starting on April 6. To sign up go tohttp://www.brainsport.ca/running-academy.htmll or drop by Brainsport.
NB Run Crew — New Balance running group
NB Run Crew meets every Thursday at 7 p.m. at New Balance Saskatoon. Always free and open to all levels. The group runs every week from April 14 to June 9. This group is led by the girls of Black Dove Healthy Eats(Saija Shearer & Madison Heise) and will finish at the 5K event at the Mogathon on June 12! For more information check out NB's Facebook page.
19th Annual Zoo Run
Sunday, April 24 is the 19th Annual Zoo Run. Saskatoon's most unique running course featuring a 5K fun run or 2.5K walk through the winding roads and trails of the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo. The event is a fundraiser for the Saskatoon Zoo Society to support their environmental education programs. Participants receive a souvenir T-shirt (they are tech shirts this year), post run cinnamon buns and refreshments, a chance at some cool draw prizes, and admission to the zoo for the day. Entry forms are available at Brainsport. You can enter on-line or drop your completed entry form at Brainsport. Early registration deadline is April 15. For more information or online registration visit http://saskatoonzoosociety.ca/event/zoorun/ or call Greg Fenty at 306-975-3042.
Brainsport Spring Run Off in Elbow
Brainsport is introducing a fun new event for you this spring! Come join us for a beautiful run along the shore of Lake Diefenbacker on May 14. Take part in either the 5K or 10K fun run and enjoy refreshments and entertainment afterward. For more details go to: http://www.brainsport.ca/events.
Club NB — New Balance walking group
Club NB is the New Balance Saskatoon walking group where you can enjoy a social walk at a light intensity. The group meets at the New Balance store on Broadway every Wednesday at 11 a.m. from April 13 to June 8. Club NB is suitable for all activity levels.
This group is led by NB Ambassador Carol Keesey and will finish at the 5K event at the Mogathon on June 12! Check out NB's Facebook page for more details.
Triathlon Training Program & Tri Equipment Clinic
Registration for Transition Sport and Fitness' Spring Triathlon Program is now open. The program runs April 5 until June 11. In addition to three coached swim, bike, run, or brick practices a week, they'll be information about what to bring to a triathlon, mental skills for triathlon, and we'll end the spring program in June with a beginner-friendly triathlon and a post-race bbq/potluck to celebrate. Visit: www.transitionsportandfitness.cafor details. Click here to register online.
Registration for Transition Sport and Fitness' Spring Triathlon Program is now open. The program runs April 5 until June 11. In addition to three coached swim, bike, run, or brick practices a week, they'll be information about what to bring to a triathlon, mental skills for triathlon, and we'll end the spring program in June with a beginner-friendly triathlon and a post-race bbq/potluck to celebrate. Visit: www.transitionsportandfitness.cafor details. Click here to register online.
Transition is also hosting a Triathlon Clinic focused on run form, recovery techniques, core, and equipment ("The Nice to Have vs. Need to Have"). The clinic will take place this Saturday March 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m at Lakewood Park/Indoor. Click here to register online.
As you set your training goals for spring, don't forget to register by April 30 2016 for best prices! Don't worry you can always switch your race if you exceed or fall short of your training goals!
The 2016 Saskatchewan Marathon taking place May 29 2016 features 5K, GoodLife Fitness 10K, Half-Marathon and Marathon event distances along a scenic course highlighting the world-renowned Meewasin Valley through the city of Saskatoon. Easily deemed one of the most scenic running events in Canada, the Saskatchewan Marathon is also a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.
Register today at http://saskmarathon.ca/races/.
Eston River Trek
The 14th annual Eston River Trek will be held on Saturday, May 14. This event has plenty of distance options including a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, full marathon and a 40 mile trek (walking challenge). For more information visit http://www.eston.ca/rivertrek.
YIN/Restorative Yoga Workshop
Join BreatheMoveBe for a 2 hour workshop on Wednesday, June 1 from 6:15 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. at the Brainsport Community Room.
A yoga class that is specifically restorative in design uses props to support the body to encourage relaxation as well as enabling the student to receive the benefit of poses without engaging the muscles, the props do the work, we receive the benefit. $35 registration fee. Space is limited. Register today by contacting Leanne at
Yoga For Runners Spring Tune Up
This class is now full, but there are possible drop-in options. Text the number below.
Come out for some runner specific yoga. Yoga is a great compliment to running and can help
keep you running injury free! Starting Wednesday, April 6 to May 25. From 7:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at the Brainsport Community Room.Space is limited and fills up fast. To register contact Leanne via email at
Weekly Triathlon Training for Women
Just Tri-it Saskatoon has classes starting on March 20. Gain confidence and experience to complete your first super sprint triathlon. Program’s focus is on a fun, friendly, and safe atmosphere. Women only. March 20 – May 15. Swim is Sunday mornings - Bike is Monday evenings - Run and Information session is Thursday evenings. Limited spots so register soon! For more information or to register visit: www.justtri-it.com.
Rock Your Run Contest
To celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Brainsport Running Club we are excited to announce the Rock Your Run contest. Brooks shoes is sending one lucky run club member to run the Las Vegas Marathon this fall.
There are several ways to enter: 1) Every time you lead a group at Run Club you get an entry. 2) All new Run Club members will get an entry. 3) Everyone who comes out to our July 13 anniversary Run Club gets and entry. In order to win you must be present for the draw on July 13. The prize is a trip for two to Las Vegas. Air, hotel and race entry included. Hope to see you at Run Club!
Saskatoon Police Service Half Marathon
The 2016 Saskatoon Police Service Half Marathon will be held on May 1 at 8 a.m at police headquarters. For more information and to register go to: https://saskatoonpoliceservicefoundation.org/events/2016-half-marathon/.
PRODUCT OF THE WEEK
Roll Recovery R3 Orthopedic Foot Roller
As training picks up this spring, the Roll Recovery R3 may become your best friend. The unique design of this roller allows you to target specific sore, or tired areas of the foot. For those suffering from, or susceptible to, plantar fasciitis, the R3 will help you stretch the plantar fascia and surrounding foot muscles. So, whether you're feet are healthy and you want to keep them that way, or you're fighting foot pain, or soreness — it's time to start rolling!
Thanks for reading the Times this week . . .gotta run . . . Tara
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