It's an exciting time at Brainsport as we're in the midst of our Minus 40 Sale, and the Brainsport Running Academy Courses are getting underway!
Last week we focused on the Standard Marathon Course, with coach Pat Sommerville. Now we're turning our attention to the Performance Marathon Course. This year's course is being coached by one of Canada's former top distance runners, Jason Warick. Jason also happens to be Brian's coach. So for a little bragging, which Jason is far too humble to do, we turn it over to Brian to tell us more about the top-notch coaching you'll receive in the Performance Marathon Course.
"Jason is an incredible coach," says Brian. "I thought I peaked in my 30's, but he helped me set my marathon personal best when I was in my 40's. Without Jason, that would never have happened. We are lucky to have one of Canada's top running experts here in Saskatoon."
Now let's get to our Q&A with Jason!
Q&A with Jason Warick
Tara: The idea of "performance" may be intimidating to some runners. Is it possible for you to explain more about what the expectations will be in this course? Training load, intensity, etc.?
Jason: "Performance" simply means that you care about getting as close to 100 percent of your own running potential as possible. What can you reasonably expect from yourself in training and in the race, given all of the real life priorities like school, work, kids, house cleaning, etc, etc. While this is not a course for beginners, it's not for Olympians, either. If you're comfortable with the thought of running four to six times per week and can handle anything between 30 and 55 minute 10k pace, you'll be fine. I adjust all workouts and programs based on ability.
Jason has competed at the elite level of distance running with a personal best marathon time of 2:19:39 at the Chicago Marathon in 2006. Photo Supplied
Tara: How will you guide participants of this course toward achieving their potential?
Jason: My priorities for athletes of any age or ability are health, fun, fitness, and performance. Running is obviously the heart of the program, but I emphasise cross-training, balance, strength, etc.
Jason (right) taking cross-training to another level. For the past two years Jason has competed in the ElliptiGO World Championships in San Diego; placing 2nd in 2016. Photo ElliptiGO
Tara: Why is this particular course beneficial in terms of training for a specific goal race such as the Saskatchewan Marathon?
Jason: I've trained for and coached marathons through these crazy Saskatchewan winters. I hope I've learned a lot of the pitfalls, shortcuts and keys to success. Having a coach and training partners will keep you motivated and accountable, and it's way more fun.
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:
Coached by Jason Warick, this will be an intense training course for the experienced and serious runner wanting to reach a competitive edge. Jason is a very high qualified coach and knows what it takes to be an extremely competitive runner.
Standard Marathon Course:Coached by Pat Sommerville, you will be training with like-minded athletes as you work toward taking on 26.2 miles. Pat has coached countless running courses at the Brainsport Running Academy and is known for his coaching technique and ability to help you reach your goals.
Half-Marathon Course:
Coached by Jen Kripki, this will be a fun, interactive training time with athletes wanting to do their first half-Marathon or raise their running to a higher level. Jen Kripki is a very experienced runner, personal trainer and coach.
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.
Brainsport Shoe Donation Progtram
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.
Volunteers for Track & Field
Volunteers are needed for track and field events at the Field House. During track and field meets volunteers are needed to fill positions on the track, at long jump, high jump and shot put. By attending a training session for only two hours you will become a valuable member of the volunteer officiating team. The bonus is you get to see the growth of many young athletes.
Register today for one of the following Introductory Officials Clinics: January 27 at 6:30 p.m. or January 28 at 9:30 a.m. Register by email with
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.
Wintershines Blizzard Triathlon
Up for a winter triathlon? This mix of ice skating (or snowshoeing), cross-country skiing and running can be done solo or as part of a relay. There are family events and a youth, and junior challenge event at shorter distances as well. There’s also a non-competitive citizen event at half the distances of the ones listed below.
Event distances:
- Skate 4k or snowshoe 1.5k
- Ski 8k (classic or skate ski)
- Run 5k
The event gets underway at 8 a.m. on February 4 at the Clarence Downey Oval and Holiday ParK Golf Course ski area. Cost is $15 per person. For more information click here and to join the Facebook group click here. Volunteers are still needed to help out with preparation of the event and for the day of. If your interested in volunteering click on either of the links and send a message.
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
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
Brainsport Minus 40 Sale
This week we're focusing on all the products in store! There's still time to take advantage of this huge sale on shoes, sandals, gear, apparel and more! Everything in the store is 10% to 40% off through January 28. Also, make sure to check out the Brainsport Clearance Center where selected products will be up to 70% off.
Thanks for reading the Times this week . . gotta run . . .Tara