Brainsport Times Feb. 21, 2018

We're just a couple weeks away from the 2018 Brainsport Brainfreeze! If you're familiar with this event, or if you're interested in what's in store for this year, we have an interview with the U of S's Jaedyn Matsalla coming up. 

As you'll read in our Q&A, the Brainfreeze is a major fundraising event for the U of S Cross Country Team, and has been so since 2011. This is a great event for anyone looking to get out into a racing environment prior to the spring, whether you're a competitive runner, or simply looking to have fun with your running friends.

So, let's get right to it!

Q&A with Jaedyn Matsalla

Tara: Being the Brainsport Brainfreeze is a fundraising event for the University of Saskatchewan Cross Country Team, let's start by getting an update on the team. What were some of the highlights of 2017, and what are the team's hopes for the 2018 season?

Jaedyn: While we didn’t send a men’s team to nationals this year, the women’s team had a great season and has a lot to look forward to in 2018, too!  We sent a team of seven athletes to nationals in Victoria, BC, and we saw a lot of personal bests and growth throughout the season. Second year student Courtney Hufsmith had a phenomenal season, winning several races and went on to place 11th at nationals. She was named as a Canada West First Team All-Star and U SPORTS Second Team All-Canadian.

Tara: How does the money raised at the Brainfreeze go toward assisting the team?

Jaedyn: The money raised from the Brainfreeze goes solely to supporting the cross-country program. It goes into the team’s operational expenses like travel, team jackets, and our training. It also goes into a scholarship fund and an endowment fund for future scholarships. The Brainfreeze has been huge in supporting the Huskie Cross-Country team and giving students from every background the opportunity to run. For a bit of an idea of the numbers, the Brainfreeze has raised $57, 894 for the program since 2011!


Participants of the Brainsport Brainfreeze take the streets of Saskatoon. Photo supplied.

Tara: Alright, now let's talk a bit about the event, itself. What can participants expect on race day in terms of the racing environment (is it chip timed, etc.)? And are there any post-race plans for participants?

Jaedyn: In terms of race environment, the Brainfreeze will be very similar to other years in terms of the same start time and location. This year we’re implementing chip timing which is a nice bonus for the racers, as well as Mizuno race tights to celebrate our 10th anniversary as a race. The 5K race distance went over very well last year, so there will be the 5K, 10K, and half marathon distances again this year.

Tara: Is this event suitable for all levels of runners?

Jaedyn: The Brainfreeze is suitable for all levels of runners and for anyone who wants to come out and support the team, no matter what their pace. It might be a bit of an intimidating race to some because of the time of year and the potential for it to be cold or snowy, but in my experience with it, I would say that’s what makes it all the more fun and rewarding for the racers! The Brainfreeze is also a lot of fun because of the fact it is a Huskie cross-country fundraiser, so there are lots of athletes out to cheer everyone on. We know what it’s like to be the racers, and we love the experience of being the spectators and course marshals this time around!

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

Jaedyn: Just to sign up fast! Last I checked, we only have 50 spots left open in the race. Also if you’re interested in registering, you can check out the Brainsport website, our Facebook event, or RaceRoster. If you have any further questions, you can email our Race Director this year, James Funk at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Upcoming Events

Brainsport Brainfreeze



Join us for the 10th Anniversary Brainfreeze on Sunday, March 4! Run a 5k, 10k or half marathon and support the UofS Huskies Cross Country team. This run will feature chip timing, and the first 300 entrants will receive a pair of custom Mizuno running tights. Registration is open at Brainsport and online at http://www.brainsport.ca.

Brainsport Running Academy Shopping and Learning Night

On Monday, March 5 Brainsport is hosting a shopping and learning night from 7 p.m to 9 p.m. Anyone who is currently registered for a course, or took part in a course in 2017, is welcome to this fun night of food, shopping and training presentations!

Brainsport Running Academy Winter/Spring Courses

Join our interactive and fun-filled training courses with expert guest speakers presenting on healthy running technique and injury prevention specific to runners. Our high-quality coaches will prepare a program for you which will help you reach your personal running goals. We have listed several options for you to chose from for your winter training desires.

Learn To Run: Training for the 2018 Saskatchewan Marathon 5K event. Begins April 4, ends May 23.

10K Run Course: Coached by Jen Kripki. Begins Feb. 26, ends May 21.

Standard Half and Full Marathon Course: Coached by Pat Somerville. Starts Feb. 5, ends May 21. This course is suitable for first-time distance runners, or those wanting to pick up their pace. 

Advanced Half and Full Marathon Course: Coached by Mike McKague. Starts Feb. 5, ends May 21. This course is suitable for runners aiming for a personal best time.

#PatTrick Run Program: This is an on-going training group coached by Pat Sommerville. Participants can join at any time. Training will include preparation for the Brainsport Brainfreeze, Saskatchewan Marathon, and Queen City Marathon. 
 
For more information on any of these courses, and to register go to www.brainsport.ca. Or call the store at 306-244-0955.

Just Tri-It 

The women's only eight-week triathlon program runs from March 18 to May 13 and includes, 3 sessions per week, one of each swimming, biking, and running. For more information about the program visit https://justtriitcom.wordpress.com/.

Brainsport Run Club - Thursday Morning Run 



The Brainsport Run Club is now gathering every Thursday morning at 10 a.m at the store. This session is in addition to the Wednesday, 6 p.m. and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. sessions. Run Club is free and open to all levels of runners. We look forward to seeing you out with us for a run! 

Saskatoon Police Service Foundation Half Marathon

The 2018 Saskatoon Police Service Foundation Half Marathon is being held on April 29. This event features 5k, 10k, and half marathon distances - and is open to runners/walkers of all levels. For more information and to register go to https://saskatoonpoliceservicefoundation.org/. Volunteers are also needed for this event. If you would like to give some of your time please contact Sgt. Wade Bourassa at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Saskatchewan Aboriginal Track & Field Championships 

Registration is now open for the 10th Annual Saskatchewan Aboriginal Track & Field Championships, being held on March 2 and March 3 at the Saskatoon Field House.
Visit www.saskatf.ca for more information, and for details on how to register to compete, or volunteer.

Yoga For Runners - New Classes beginning in 2018

Come experience the benefits of yoga for runners, with the Breath Move Be instructors at Namaskar Yoga Studio - 615 2nd Avenue North. $100 pre-registered and $17 for drop-in (if available space). Classes run from January 9 to February 17. Register by contacting http:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or text Leanne at 306-251-2964.


Product of the Week

Mizuno Wave Rider 21



This latest version of the Wave Rider has reached a new level of comfort. A redesigned engineered mesh upper, premium sockliner and softer heel counter, all contribute to making this the sweetest Wave Rider to hit the market to date. Come check the Wave Rider 21 at Brainsport and feel for yourself!

Thanks for reading the Times.
Gotta run,
Tara