Brainsport Times Jan. 31, 2018

As January draws to a close and we welcome in February, there is perhaps a glimmer of hope in seeing an end to the winter season. If you haven't already, it's time to start thinking about spring training and what that may look like. 

In this week's Times we're going to explore a unique opportunity for our female readers (and for our male readers, who may have women in their lives interested in triathlon).

Susan Hamilton and Liz Hoffman are co-coordinators of Just Tri-It. This is an all-female triathlon training course intended to bring women off all fitness levels, and experience into the sport.

In our Q&A we're going to speak with Susan to learn all about this opportunity. Let's get to it!

Q&A with Susan Hamilton

Tara: Tell us what got you involved in triathlon, and how your experience inspired you to get other women involved in the sport?

Susan: I wanted to make a healthy change and my coworker told me to check out the Just Tri-It program. I figured I would go for it! What did I have to lose? As a new participant, I was surprised at how welcoming and inclusive the group was. I returned the following year and brought a friend with me. I have been a volunteer with the program since 2013 because the Just Tri-It program helps introduces women to the sport in a supportive and non-competitive environment. Participants learn new skills, meet new like-minded ladies and becoming physically fit along the way!


The women of Just Tri-It getting to work in the gym. Photo supplied

Tara: What are some of the benefits of training and competing in triathlon you've seen over the years among participants of Just Tri It?

Susan: Just Tri-it (JTI) gives camaraderie to get through long trainings, gain confidence to go from the Makin It Happen triathlon on to long distance races. And motivates women to take baby steps of accomplishment and gain confidence in each competition.

Tara: Who do you recommend getting involved with Just Tri-It?

Susan: The Just Tri-It program is intended for women from the age of 18 years of age and older. It introduces women to the sport of triathlons. Women of all shapes, sizes, physical abilities and ethnicity are encouraged to participate. This program is of significant value to women because it encourages a healthy and active lifestyle, creates confidence, and provides an opportunity to be a role model for others.  A 2017 participant, Thelma Snow celebrated her 75 birthday by joining Just Tri-it.  She said "The support from JTI was so helpful."

Many times throughout the season I heard participants say, "she was so inspiring.” Other participants admired not only the fact that Thema entered the sport at 75-years-old, but was a shining example of setting and reaching goals. She did so with passion and always a sense of humour.

Tara: Why do you feel it's important to create an environment of women only?

Susan: Women are not always supportive of each other, especially in sports. One of our goals is to provide a supportive environment. Our host has alway been the YMCA. Their vision is "Women and girls empowered in a safe, equitable community.” Like the YWCA, we believe in diversity, teamwork, and empowerment of women. We feel that there is nothing more empowering than completing a triathlon.

The underlying success of JTI is leadership by example. Our volunteers are women, who themselves have overcome obstacles and challenges. They have commitments to their families and careers but they manage to maintain a balance between everything they do and an active lifestyle. All our volunteers are a source of inspiration especially when they share their personal JTI stories.


Some little fans showing their support for their Just Tri-It mom. Photo supplied.

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

Susan: Women who have previously participated in JTI shared with us five key benefits of the program:

1. Good For Your Heart - a positive regular habit in your life.

2. 2. Builds Confidence - to complete a triathlon and beyond.
3. 3. Work performance - Learning effective time management, triathlon training is the ultimate in time management - balancing all three disciplines.
4. 4. Peace Of Mind - Triathlon training is one of the more peaceful things an average woman will do in a day. From silence under the water to an early morning run, the time away from the distractions of work, home and family is a gift.
5. 5. Role Model - People (especially kids) benefit from seeing their friends, family, or mom lead a healthy lifestyle. Eating well and training regularly, show children, that any goal, even a triathlon, can be within reach for themselves.
   
   The program for 2018 is already half full, so don’t hesitate or you might miss out! For more information please visit our websitehttps://justtriitcom.wordpress.com/.

Upcoming Events

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! 

Brainsport Run 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: Jan. 10, coached by Karon Mathies. This course will prepare beginner runners for the 2018 Brainsport Brainfreeze

Learn To Run: Jan. 17 at the YMCA, coached by Jen Kripki. This course will prepare beginner runners for the 2018 Brainsport Brainfreeze.

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. 19, 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.

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/.


Brainsport Brainfreeze



Join us for the 10th Anniversary Brainfreeze! 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.

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 3at 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 contactinghttp: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

Altra HIIT XT



For all you zero-drop shoe enthusiasts out there Altra has a new offering for you. HIIT and CrossFit people will also want to take note of the Altra HIIT XT. This shoe is designed with both of these activities in mind. The wrap-around, sticky rubber outsole is ideal for multi-surface workouts and lateral traction. The Altra HIIT XT is also an excellent running shoe option for those who prefer a zero drop. Come on in to the store and check them out for yourself!

Thanks for reading the Times!
Gotta run,
Tara