Brainsport Times Oct. 24, 2018

f you're a runner in Saskatoon, you know there are some very inspiring stories to be found among those who weave the fabric of the community. In this week's Times we're speaking with one of those runners as he prepares to run the New York City Marathon on November 4. 

Dennis Furniss turned his health, and his life around by way of becoming a runner. He has a remarkable story and this week we get to hear some of it in our Q&A!

Q&A with Dennis Furniss

Tara: Let's start by getting some background on your journey as a runner. You've been candid about being overweight and the role running played in bringing you to a healthy place. What got you started on your running journey?

Dennis: My beautiful wife is my inspiration for running. I would take her to different races and thought it might be nice to join her on a 5K sometime. However, at 280lbs I had to make some changes first before I was ready to take that first running step.

Tara: How difficult was it to begin on this journey as an overweight person, and how did you overcome those difficulties to get to where you are today?

Dennis: Change is difficult but possible. I kept things simple and didn't try to make too many changes at once. I started with what I ate and lost the first 71lbs by making healthy food choices. Once I had that under control, I joined a learn to run program. If I had tried to make those changes together I don't think I would have succeeded. Plus, shedding some of the weight first gave me the energy to take up running.


On November 4 Dennis will run the New York City Marathon. Photo T Squared Social

Tara: Tell us about your decision to run the New York City Marathon?

Dennis: A few years ago, I began to do destination runs. It’s a great way to combine a vacation with fitness, plus you see things on the running path you don’t as a regular tourist. After I ran Chicago in 2016 I started looking at the Abbott World Marathon Majors, a series of six marathons that culminates with receiving a special Six Star Finishers medal. New York is second in the series for me. Besides being part of the Majors, some friends in a Brainsport Running Academy course have run New York and spoke very highly of the event, the crowds and the overall experience. Who wouldn't want to run with 52,000 other people?!

Tara: What's the greatest lesson you've learned so far on your running journey?

Dennis: That anything is possible, no matter what stage of life you are in. If you put in the time and effort you will see results. It hasn’t been big leaps of improvement, it’s been the small, incremental changes that add up over time. Persistence does pay off, but you need the discipline to stick it out until it does. But it’s worth it!

Tara: Is there anything you would like to add?

I would like to say a huge thank you to Brian Michasiw, Brainsport and New Balance for the opportunity to run in New York City. The VIP treatment makes me, this everyday athlete, feel like an elite!

Upcoming Events

Goldfins Open House

Are your children interested in swimming? Would you like information on what is involved with joining a swim club? Come to Brainsport on October 27 (from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.) to meet representatives from the Goldfins Swim Club to get answers to all of your questions. While at Brainsport, check out our large selection of swimwear and accessories.

Hilary Caldwell Panel Discussion

Brainsport and the Goldfins Swim Club are very excited to announce that Haley Caldwell, Canadian swimmer and Olympic medalist, will be at Brainsport on October 27 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. for a panel discussion! This unique event is free to the public, but seating is limited. Register early so you don't miss out. Register online at https://raceroster.com/events/2018/20220/haley-caldwell-panel-discussion.

Gingerbread Run Volunteers Needed



Brainsport's Gingerbread Run is back again this year in support of SaskAbilities! Though this event is sold out, you still have an opportunity to get in on the action on November 18 as a volunteer. For more information and to sign-up contact Lisette - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
 

Transition Sport & Fitness Triathlon Training

Transition's Fall Triathlon Training program runs from November 6 to December 22. The program includes three coached group workouts a week, as well as weekly coach's emails, monthly clinics on topics such as equipment, clothing, nutrition and injury prevention, a guaranteed spot in the winter tri program, and a super supportive environment for newbies and experienced triathletes alike. Limited spots left. To learn more go to www.transitionsportandfitness.ca.

SaskFit 2018 Expo

Brainsport will be at the Shaw Centre November 2 to 4 for theSaskFit Expo. Come visit us and learn more about running shoes, training shoes and all the amazing ways that Brainsport can make your fitness journey better.  

SaskFit is Saskatchewan's premiere fitness and health conference that reflects the energy and dedication that our provincial Fitness Leaders have towards promoting active, healthy lifestyle choices in our communities.

Special Olympics Youth Programs


Registration is now open for the 2018 Fall session of the Special Olympics youth programs! The Active Start Program (ages 2-7) and FUNdamentalsprogram (ages 7-12) will run Thursday evenings from September 20 to December 6. To register clickhere. 


Product of the Week

Cloud Edge Moonlight

We're pleased to announce Brainsport as one of only two Canadian stores launching the On Cloud Edge Moonlight - and it happens today! 

The unmistakable sensation of running on clouds now shines even brighter, thanks to standout reflective detailing on the CloudTec® outsole. The limited edition that takes comfort and style to the Edge. Come check the Cloud Edge Moonlight in store!

Thanks for reading the Times this week. 

Gotta run,
Tara