In this week's Times, we're going to speak with the winner of this year's Queen City Marathon, Jen Kripki!
Many of you may be familiar with Jen as she's coached at the Brainsport Running Academy, and has her own personal training business in the city. This week we're going to get to know Jen a bit better and learn about her big win in Regina.
So, let's get right to it!
Q&A with Jen Kripki
Tara: Let's start by getting some background for those not familiar with your running career. What have been some of your career highlights?
Jen: Some of my career highlights include running the Boston marathon as it was my first big race, a second place finish in Winnipeg in 2014, and hitting my PB of 3:06 in Vancouver 2014.
Tara: How does winning the Queen City Marathon stack up to other major accomplishments in your career?
Jen: The win at QCM is definitely a highlight for me. It was even better that it happened at a race so close to home. I had support and encouraging words from so many familiar faces along the way. Saskatoon always has a big presence at QCM.
Jen crossing the finish line at the 2017 Queen City Marathon on September 10.
Tara: Tell us about your training leading into the marathon. As a new mom was it more challenging than in the past? And, was there anything specific about this build up that signaled it was going to be a strong race?
Jen: My training proved to be more challenging this time around than in the past. I was dealing with some minor injuries throughout my training. Being a new mom, I sometimes had to trade in those speed workouts for a slower run pushing a stroller. I honestly went into this race with no expectations other than to just run and finish. Fortunately, things just seemed to fall into place for me that day.
Jen's "little cheerleader," her son Jack celebrating with her after her marathon win. Photo supplied
Tara: What advice do you have for all the runners looking to run a fast marathon? And for those simply looking to complete the distance in a strong fashion?
Jen: My advice for those wanting to run a fast marathon would be to focus and work on getting faster at the 10k and half marathon distance. For those looking to complete a marathon, those long-run workouts are key to getting you to the finish line.
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Jen: At the end of the day it really comes down to completion. Every finish, no matter how fast it is, is a win.
Upcoming Events
2017 Gingerbread Run
Registration for this year's Gingerbread Run opens on September 29! This always-popular event is sure to sell out quickly so be sure to visit http://www.brainsport.ca/ to register - and get ready to chase down Gingy on November 19!
Choose from 5k and 10k distances, with both routes tracing along the South Saskatchewan River. Registration includes a Gingerbread Run bunnyhug, along with some sweet gingerbread treats, and warm beverages post-run. All race profits will go to support the Saskatchewan Abilities Council/Easter Seals Saskatchewan programming including Camp Easter Seal, Summer Fun, and Adaptive Technology Services.
Brainsport Running Academy
There's still a chance to get registered for the Brainsport Running Academy Learn to Run Course! Coach, Kim Galus will be leading this eight-week course beginning on September 27.
For more information and to register go to http://www.brainsport.ca/, or drop by the store to register.
Fall Cross Training, Family Fitness, and Triathlon Training
Registration is now open for Transition Sport and Fitness fall programs including family-friendly fall fitness, cross-training for runners and triathletes, virtual Pilates, swim skills sessions, and the fall triathlon training programs. Visit http://www.transitionsportandfitness.ca for more info or contact
Yoga For Runners
Come experience the benefits of yoga for runners, with the Breath Move Be instructors at Namaskar Yoga Studio - 615 2nd Avenue North. $125 pre-registered and $17 for drop-in (if available space). Classes being offered from September 5 to November 7. Register by contacting http:
Product of the Week
New Balance 1500v3
Jen's pick for our featured product this week is the New Balance 1500v3.
"I love the NB 1500's both for training and racing. They offer, for me, the perfect amount of cushioning is a very light and fast shoe." - Jen Kripki
This speedy racing flat was Jen's shoe of choice for the Queen City Marathon, as you can see in the photo of her crossing the finish line. The New Balance 1500v3 is in stock at Brainsport in both men's and women's sizes. If you're a runner who likes a little stability this is a fantastic racing flat. It keeps a nice lightweight, while also providing a little extra support to keep you going strong.
Thanks for reading the Times this week ... gotta run ... .Tara