Brainsport Times Nov. 21, 2018

In this week's Times we have an exclusive interview with the Gingerbread Man from this year's Gingerbread Run 5K!

In real life his name is Graham Wilson - and for a long time, he's dreamt about donning the Gingerbread Man suit. This year he got his chance - and he ran with it - upholding the Gingerbread Man's winning streak.

There's lots to hear about from Graham, so let's get right to it! 

Q&A with Graham Wilson

Tara: What did it feel like to get the call asking you to be the Gingerbread Man for this year's 5K distance at the Gingerbread Run?

Graham: I was extremely excited to be asked to run as the Gingerbread Man.  I'm friends with a few of the previous Gingerbread Men, and it's always been a goal of mine to qualify for this role myself.  I've just recently finished my season of cross country running with the University of Saskatchewan team, so it was the perfect time for me to get this call.  Not only do I have the drive that it takes to run an entire race in a foam body suit, but I also had the fitness to get the job done.


The Gingerbread Man on his way to victory in the 2018 Gingerbread Run 5K. Photo Louis Christ

Tara: Nobody has ever beaten the Gingerbread Man - did you feel the pressure?

Graham: I definitely knew the expectations when I accepted the job, and I definitely felt the pressure at times. I knew I was in good shape, but yelling at the other runners that they can't catch the Gingerbread Man added some additional pressure. Coming into the race as what some people might consider a "pre-race favourite" or a "mythically fast fairytale-like athlete" definitely influences your thinking when you're on the starting line, but as soon as the race starts all you can do is trust your previous training and run your heart out.

Tara: What was the highlight of the race for you?

Graham: Running the race was a lot of fun (running races is always fun!), but really the best part of this race was the crowd support. You get a lot of support when running a race like this to begin, but when you run as the Gingerbread Man it's a whole different level. As I said earlier, there's certain expectations as the Gingerbread Man. Lots of people wanted to see the winning streak extended, and lots of people wanted to see it end. No matter what camp you're in you're probably cheering, and it's motivating either way. I would say that the cheering (either for me or against me) was one of the best parts of the race.  


Even Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark was out to catch the Gingerbread Man this year. Photo Louis Christ

Tara: Do you think you'll want to run as the Gingerbread Man again? Was it fun being a part of this big event for Brainsport?

Graham: If I get the opportunity, I would certainly run as the Gingerbread Man again. I've had the opportunity to help out with another Brainsport event (the Brainfreeze) as one of the behind-the-scenes people planning and setting up the race course, but being involved like this is entirely different. Setting up a race course can sometimes feel like an unappreciated job when the runners aren't out on the course yet, but being so directly involved in a race like this is really, really fun and it reminded me why it's so important to help with events like this in other capacities.

Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Graham: I definitely want to take a moment to thank Brainsport and all of the volunteers that help out with events like this. Brainsport does an amazing job of creating a setting where the running community can really come out and support each other, and support organizations like SaskAbilities. I know that a lot of other cities wouldn't have so many people come out to run and cheer people on in the kind of weather that we have this time of year. But year in and year out, races like this one and the Brainfreeze surprisingly fill up most years, and it's definitely because of the community support that Brainsport helps to provide.

Upcoming Events

Brainsport Lunchtime Run

December is coming. It sounds like a great time for a run!

Meet Harvey for a lunchtime run every Thursday from November 29 to Dec. 27 for a special downtown edition of Run Club. This informal workout is suitable for all levels of runners. Meet at the clocktower, across from the Sheraton Hotel, on Thursdays at 12:08 p.m. for a 30-minute run. No charge, no sign-up, just bring a friend and come ready to run!

Brainsport Running Academy

Back by popular demand, the 2018/19 installation of the PatTrick run clinic will start on November 27th. Coach Pat will help focus your training and drive you towards your race goals in 2019! This clinic will be on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. at Brainsport. There are currently two ways to participate in this clinic with additional options coming in 2019.

PatTrick - 41 weeks
This clinic will run continuously for 41 weeks preparing you for the Brainfreeze (March), the SK Marathon (May), and the Queen City Marathon (September). Signing up for the full 41 weeks is also the best deal: save 25% on the clinic fees by signing up for the41 week option.

PatTrick - 14 weeks
If you are looking for a smaller commitment, there is also a 14-week option. Same great coach, same great training! This 14-week program will run until February 26 and prepare you for the Brainfreeze in March.

Follow the links on the Brainsport website https://brainsport.ca/events/, or register at https://raceroster.com/events/2018/19786/brainsport-run-academy-2018.

Breath Move Be Yoga for Athletes

Breathe Move Be is offering a Yoga for Athletes course starting on Nov. 15 and going until Dec. 20 at Midwest Karate. Pre-register for $85. Drop-in spots will be made available for $18 when space is available. For more information and to register contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

6th Annual Lighten Up Fun Run 

Get out your bells, and battery-op l.e.d. lights. On Dec. 16, decorate yourself for a fun run at the start of winter. Hot beverages and dainties post-run will once again be provided by D'lish.

There's no fee, no registration - just come out and have some fun! Bikes, well-behaved dogs, strollers welcome. For more information click here. 

Transition Sport & Fitness Triathlon Training

Transition's Fall Triathlon Training program runs from November 6 to December 22. The program includes three coached group workouts a week, as well as weekly coach's emails, monthly clinics on topics such as equipment, clothing, nutrition and injury prevention, a guaranteed spot in the winter tri program, and a super supportive environment for newbies and experienced triathletes alike. Limited spots left. To learn more go to www.transitionsportandfitness.ca


Product of the Week

Skratch Labs Apple Cinnamon



At this year's Gingerbread Run we served up Skratch Labs Apple Cinnamon hydration mix warmed up at the 10K turnaround! Heating up Skratch Labs Apple Cinnamon mix is a great way to get in your electrolytes in a clean tasting, all natural drink - that won't leave you chilled. Come pick up a bag in the store today - and stay warm out there! 

Thanks for reading the Times this week. 

Gotta run,
Tara