In this week's Times we're going to be speaking with Brian! For those of you who are new subscribers, or perhaps new to Saskatoon's running community, Brian is the founder/owner of Brainsport and all-round creative, interesting guy (and really fast runner).
Brian was recently in the Florida Keys for a dealer's summit where he learned about some exciting new products, and explored some innovative ideas in terms of the future of the running industry. Let's not waste anytime in getting to our conversation with Brian!
Q&A with Brian Michasiw
Tara: Let's start with some product talk. The three founders of On were at conference and gave you a sneak peek at what's coming up next year. This is a company you, and many in the industry, are very excited about. What's got you so pumped about On?
Brian: I'm excited because On running shoes have a technology that is both innovative and simple. The design of the sole allows for both cushion and support depending the needs of your foot. Also, they are a very focused company. They only make product for running. They are also a breath of fresh air on the business side of things. The big companies are getting harder to deal with, but the people at On do these amazing things like return phone calls, (is this too much information...hahaha).
Tara: The future of the running industry and ways to improve running stores were topics covered in presentations at the summit. What were some of the key takeaways for you? And how might they impact customers?
Brian: All of my fellow retailers are terrified of online shopping. So, we brick and mortar retailers need to strive to offer a phenomenal shopping experience. We discussed strategies such as managing our inventory to make sure we minimize the chance of being sold out of a size. We also discussed the fact that community involvement is important to our customers and this was a good reminder to keep connecting and giving back to our community.
A photo of Brian's locker at home where On has clearly become his go-to shoe. Photo supplied
Tara: You had some very interesting conversations with former professional triathlete and one of the founders of On, Oliver Bernhard, about your experiences in Kenya. What got you two started in on these conversations and what will you take away from them.
Brian: Bernard and I discussed the shoe donation program. Brainsport collects thousands of gently used shoes every year. Most of these shoes are reused by people in need. However, sometimes a pair of shoes is simply worn out and the end up in the landfill. I asked Bernard if there is not a better way to deal with worn out shoes. He said that On will sell over a million pairs of shoes next year and this is something that worries him. He asked me to collaborate with him on how this problem can be solved. I'm very interested to see where this will go.
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Brian: Brainsport just received it's first shipment of On and we will have them out on the shelves by this weekend!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Saskatchewan Marathon
This premier event, taking place on May 28, offers a distance for everyone, including a kids Marafun! Whatever level you may be at there's a race for you with offerings of a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and marathon. The Saskatchewan Marathon is known as one of the provinces best racing events of the year! For more information and register go to http://saskmarathon.ca/.
Canada Goose 150 Race
This one-time only, no-pressure distance running event is being held on June 24 and 25 in Wascana Park in celebration of Canada's 150th birthday. There's something for everyone at this fun-inspired event. Choose from 150-minute run to a 150K run, with plenty of other options in between. For more information go to http://www.marathonmatters.ca/home5/canadagoose150june24and252017.
EY River Run Classic
The EY River Run Classic, organized by the Saskatoon Road Runners Association, is being held in Saskatoon on Sunday, July 9. The event consists of a 5K, 10K, and half marathon, with the 10K race being part of the Saskatchewan Athletics Road Race Series. It is a great route along the South Saskatchewan River. For those of you who will not be entering the race, please consider volunteering (volunteers can contact Nancy Milhousen
Canada 150 Ultramarathon
Celebrate Canada's 150th anniversary by taking on this unique ultra marathon traversing the Canadian Shield. The event will be held on July 1 at Falcon Lake, Manitoba (race starts at Great Falls). Run the 150 solo, or get a team together to participate in the relay! For more information go to http://canada150ultra.com/registration/,
Breath Move Be Yoga - Spring Tune Up!
Starting on March 14 through May 16, Breath Move Be is offering runner specific youg at Namaskar Yoga Studio (615 2nd Avenue North). Cost is $120 if pre-registered. There will also be a $17 drop-in option if room in class. Pre-register by contacting
200 Hour International Yoga Teacher Training
The Living Well Centers is offering 200 Hour International Yoga Teacher Training starting on April 4. Deepen your yoga knowledge and practice. Strengthen your spiritual connection. Become a yoga instructor.
Training consists of five modules in total, each focusing on different elements of yoga teacher development. Each module includes roughly 40 hours of instruction, personal practice and mandatory homework. For more information email
Virtual Pilates and Virtual Rides
For runners looking for some great recovery, strengthening, and cross-training options, Transition is now offering pilates and cycling from the comfort of your own home. These interactive live web-streamed classes are unique in that. if you choose to have your webcam Coach Carly can see you and correct technique and interact. For those with an at-home trainer Virtual Rides take place Sunday mornings. Click the here for more information.
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.
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
Brooks Moving Comfort Bras
Finding a comfortable, supportive, functional and fashionable bra can be quite a challenge. Brooks Moving Comfort bras have long been a saving grace for athletic women. With plenty of style, sizes and colour selections to choose from, the perfect bra may just be waiting for you at Brainsport.
Whether it's a Moving Comfort bra or one of the other high-quality bras in-store, this Saturday is the time to get in and try some options on. We're hosting an expert on all-things sports bras; her name is Lillian, and she's going to be ready to help you out!
Thanks for reading the Times this week . . gotta run . . .Tara