With summer now underway it's time to start thinking about fall races. In Saskatchewan, we're fortunate to have a premier road racing event in both the spring and fall - the Saskatchewan Marathon in May and the Queen City Marathon in September.
When it comes to fall racing the Queen City Marathon in Regina is a top-notch event for those looking to stay close to home. In this week's Q&A we're going to talk the Queen City Marathon Race Director Shawn Weimer to learn all about what's on deck this year.
For those of you planning a fall marathon, it's never too early to start practising race-day nutrition. Be sure to check out our "Product of the Week" featuring Tailwind Nutrition. It may just be the right formula for you!
Before we get to our Q&A, it's worth noting we have another Learn to Run Course set to get underway at the Brainsport Running Academy in August in preparation for the Race Against Racism. August is a beautiful time of year to run in the Bridge City, so don't miss out on this opportunity if you've been thinking about taking part in one of our courses. There's more information about this course in the "Upcoming Events" section.
Now, let's get to our conversation with Shawn!
Shawn Weimer
Tara: Let's start by talking about what makes Saskatchewan such a great place to host a marathon. Both the Saskatchewan Marathon and the Queen City Marathon are top notch events. What do you think contributes to this?
Shawn: The people of Saskatchewan are always great at getting behind the events hosted in this province. Whether it is a small, local event or events like the GMS Queen City Marathon, that attract people from around the world, they never fail to participate, volunteer and celebrate with us all. The people of this province are incredibly giving of themselves and we could not put on world-class events without them. The volunteers in this province are especially great and the GMS Queen City Marathon would not happen without the work of the close to 750 volunteers each year.
Thousands of people will take to the streets of Regina for the Queen City Marathon the weekend of September 7. Photo Supplied
Tara: This is known as quite a fast marathon, so those looking for a personal best might want to consider the Queen City Marathon for a fall race. What makes this such a quick course?
Shawn: We have seen some pretty fast times over the past 17 years and in fact last year the wheelchair course record was bested, as Lisa Franks set a new record. I would guess part of the reason why the GMS Queen City Marathon sees some quick times is that people have had the entire summer to train in nice weather. A number of years ago we also moved a significant portion of the course to the roadways giving runners a nice wide course to run on and this also has had an impact on the quickness of the course.
Tara: For those who have participated in this marathon in the past, is there anything new or special about this year's event?
Shawn: We are constantly striving to exceed our runners' expectations and will have a few small changes again this year. I am always going back to the evaluations from last year to see what runners liked and disliked and see if we can improve. I would encourage people to watch out social media as we approach race weekend to see what is new for 2018.
There's are distance options for everyone at the Queen City Marathon, including the wheelchair. Photo Supplied
Tara: Marathons can often seem like very competitive events for those who may have less experience as a runner. However, there are options at the Queen City Marathon for all levels of runners. Can you talk a bit more about this?
Shawn: The GMS Queen City Marathon is about providing a "race for every pace" during race weekend. The term marathon can be deceiving and not truly represent the experience for the majority of runners during the weekend. We have people of all ages and abilities completing everything from a 1K kids race, a 5K night race to the full marathon and more. I would encourage everyone to check out our website to find the race that best suits their interest. You could even come and run more than one day and take part in the Scribbly Challenge.
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Shawn: I would like to invite all of the Brainsport Times readers to come to Regina in September to run with us this year. We are hoping to have over 7,000 participants this year over race weekend and would love to see everyone out running, staying active and sharing a fun race experience. I will see everyone at the start line!
Upcoming Events
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 click here.
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.
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
Athletic-focused Yoga
Breath Move Be Yoga wants to help you become a better athlete. A regular and well-rounded yoga practice helps bring the body into symmetrical alignment helping to prevent overuse injuries in endurance athletes. Yoga can help with flexibility, balance, and whole-body strength, thereby improving your form, efficiency, and power.
Join Breath Move Be for their athletic-focused yoga class at their new location on a new evening. Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. from May 31 to June 28 at Midwest Karate Studio. $70 pre-registered by May 25. Drop-in sessions are available through June 28. Email Leanne at
Product of the Week
Tailwind Nutrition
Whether planning race-day nutrition, or staying fuelled through those hot summer long runs, we've got you covered with Tailwind Nutrition! Tailwind drink mix will meet your calorie, hydration, and electrolyte needs all in one mix. It's deliberately mild and described as "clean" and "light" tasting. Tailwind is formulated to be easy on your gut and easily absorbed. It also dissolves quickly and completely in water, so it leaves behind no aftertaste or residue in your bottles.
If you're looking for a nutrition option drop by the store and we'll tell you more about Tailwind, or introduce you to our other nutrition options to help keep you on the go!
Thanks for reading the Times.
Gotta run,
Tara