Brainsport Times July 4, 2018

We're talking CrossFit in today's Times. The Voodoo Fitness Festival takes place in September here in Saskatoon; and Brainsport is sponsoring the run portion of the event. The Voodoo Fitness Festival will draw more than 500 athletes from across Canada into Saskatoon for a weekend of competition.To get the scoop on this event we're speaking with organizing committee member and CrossFit Games athlete Laurie Meschishnick.So, let's get right to it! Q&A with Laurie MeschishnickTara: Some of our readers may be familiar with the Voodoo Fitness Festival, while others likely aren't. Tell us about the basic premise of this event?

Laurie: The Voodoo Fitness Festival is in its ninth year (formerly the Bridge City Beatdown). It is the largest fitness festival in Canada being host to more than 500 athletes from all across Canada. Many of the attending athletes have competed at the regional level of CrossFit which is the last step to the Crossfit Games. This year's Voodoo Fitness Festival will run September 7 through 9 in beautiful Saskatoon at the Ramada Golf Dome.

Laurie at the 2017 CrossFit Games in Madison, WI getting ready for the Run/Swim/Run event with her buddy Kelly Graham. Photo SuppliedTara: Brainsport is sponsoring the the run at the Voodoo Fitness Festival. How does the run fit into the overall competition?

Laurie: CrossFit tests fitness across 10 domains: cardiovascular and respiratory endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, speed, coordination, agility, balance and accuracy. Running definitely fits into CrossFit!

Laurie taking on the Obstacle Course event at the CrossFit Games. CrossFit athletes will pushing themselves in events like this at the 2018 Voodoo Fitness Festival. Photo SuppliedTara: Who is best suited to take part in the Voodoo Fitness Festival? Is there a level of fitness an athlete needs to be at in order to take part?

Laurie: The Voodoo Fitness Festival offers a division for every level of athlete. There are 8 divisions: Elite, Masters Elite (40+), Teens, Masters teams (40+ & 50+), Rx'd teams, Open teams, Beginner teams. If you're a fitness enthusiast who enjoys competition, come test your fitness at the Voodoo Fitness Festival. Our website has division standards to help you decide which division is right for you.

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

Laurie: The Voodoo Fitness Festival will have over ten health and wellness vendors available all weekend. Come check out their Voodoo specials. This weekend will not disappoint if you enjoy watching skilled, fit people leave it all on the floor in the spirit of competition. Head over to our website for all the details. https://voodoofitnessfest.com/.

Upcoming EventsVoodoo Fitness Festival

In September Saskatoon will play host to the Voodoo Fitness Festival - the largest fitness competition in Canada. There are divisions for all levels of athletes, so if crossfit is up your alley be sure to check out the website to learn more. https://voodoofitnessfest.com/.
GMS Queen City Marathon

Take part in one of the province's premier road races on the weekend of September 7 at the Queen City Marathon. There are distance options ranging from the kid's 1K through to the full marathon, along with relay options. To learn more and to register clickhere. 
Brainsport Running Academy

Learn to Run at Wanuskewin Heritage Park: Get the basics down this summer over a 7-week long course leading into the Race Against Racism on September 22.

The course starts on Saturday, August 11, 2018. Sessions will take place along the great trails at Wanuskewin Heritage Park! To register go to raceroster.com.

EY River Run Classic

The EY River Run Classic is one of the premiere running events in Saskatoon. This event is organized by the Saskatoon Road Runners Association and consists of 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances. The routes run along the South Saskatchewan River, making for a beautiful route. For more information click here. 
Teen Challenge Freedom Run 

Runners and walkers of all fitness levels will join together for our Teen Challenge Freedom Run on August 19. This 5K fun run is in support of the Teen Challenge Prairie Hope Women's Centre. Whether you are a seasoned runner or first-time participant, end your summer with a healthy living challenge and support a great cause fighting addiction across Saskatchewan. To register click here.Also, check out the Learn to Run Course at the Brainsport Running Academy designed to get you ready for the Teen Challenge Freedom Run. 
Participants Wanted for U of S Study Dentistry students at the U of S are looking for participants for a student-research study testing the effects of Gatorade on teeth in endurance athletes. Participation involves performing a VO2 max test and two 90-treadmill minute runs; one while drinking Gatorade and the other water. Saliva will be collected during the runs and the acidity will be tested.Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 50-years-old. Testing days are scheduled for June 10, 17 and 19, but other dates will be accommodated if necessary. Participants are paid $50 at the end the testing and are given their VO2 max results. If interested in participating contact Dylan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.
Product of the WeekNew Balance Minimus X40 Trainer

One the best options for a CrossFit shoe is the New Balance Minimus X40 Trainer. This versatile shoe is tough, stable and nimble; giving you what you need to take on all sorts of terrain and activities. The Vibram outsole provides durability and support for lifts and tough cross-training regimens. And, synthetic mesh upper with TPU reinforcements keeps your foot breathing and locked down. Come check this option out at the store!

Thanks for reading the Times.

Gotta run,
Tara