Welcome to November, everyone. T'is the season to remember those who have served, and continue to serve our country in the Armed Forces.
Each year the Saskatoon Road Runners Association hosts a Remembrance Day Run, which is a unique event sure to get your heart and mind working, as much as your legs. In this week's Q&A we're going to speak with Murray Gross, of the SRRA, to learn more about this event.
But, before we get to our interview we want to congratulate our co-worker, Jamie Epp, on being named Coach of the Year by Saskatchewan Athletics! Jamie is an assistant coach with the University of Saskatchewan Track and Cross Country Team and head coach with the Saskatoon Track and Field Club. Congratulations Jamie!
Now, onto our Q&A . . .
Q&A with Murray Gross
Tara: What are the motivating factors for the SRRA to put on an annual Remembrance Day Run?
Murray: The SRRA offers a wide variety of events and services to its members at cost and free. The Remembrance Day Run is a free service to members (and non-members) that allows us to remember those lost to war and reflect on Canada's participation in wars, peace and our contribution to the world community. It’s also an opportunity for members to enjoy the fellowship of other runners and get an easy run in on Remembrance Day.
Murray Gross (left) and Don Cochrane giving readings at one of the stops along Remembrance Day Run route. Photo supplied.
Tara: This isn't your typical fun run; it's as much a history lesson, as it is a group run. Tell us more about what people are going to experience on the run in terms of what they'll be learning about.
Murray: The Remembrance Day Run travels from site to site (historic and war memorials). SRRA members have volunteered to share their remembrances, recite poems/readings and explain the importance of their readings and remembrances. An annual component of the run is the recitation of the poem “The ungirt runner,” by Charles Hamilton Sorley - a World War I poet. There will also be a couple of multi-media presentations including, Leonard Cohen reading the poem In Flanders Fields. And finally, this year we will be considering the War of 1812 and the Canadian contributions to the Spanish War.
Tara: Who do you recommend takes part in this run? Is it for all ages?
Murray: The Remembrance Day Run is for all ages, but it is a run, not a walk. People have ridden their bicycles in past years in-order to keep up.
Audrey Mowchenko giving a Remembrance Day reading. Photo supplied.
Tara: As the leader of this run, what is your favorite part of this event?
Murray: My favorite part of the Remembrance Day Run is doing the research, and working with SRRA members, many of whom have volunteered year after year to make this a successful event. I also appreciate SRRA members bringing their own ideas and contributions. I especially want to thank Dave Buchner and Dave Stark, Nan, Don, Shirley, Shona, Jerry, and Jan, many of whom have supported the run for years.
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Murray: Please dress appropriately. We do make a number of stops (approximately 10 this year) and people tend to get cold at the stops.
Upcoming Events
SRRA Remembrance Day Run
Join SRRA member, Murray Gross and SRRA volunteers for an easy-pace 4k run through Saskatoon, in remembrance of those who have served in Canada's Armed Forces. This year there will be some unique readings and discussion including peace and pacifism, the War of 1812 and Dr. Norman Betune/the Spanish Civil War.
There is no charge for this fun, educational and moving run. Refreshments will be served at the end of the run.
Start time is 2 p.m. on November 11, at Wolf Willow Co-Housing, 350 Avenue J South (at 17th Street and Avenue J, near King George School). For more information email Murray, at Murray at
Brainsport Run Academy Winter Training Sessions
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 at the YMCA (new) starts January 17/18 and ends March 7/18. Coached by Jen Kripki.
Learn To Run at Brainsport starts Wednesday, 6 p.m., January 10/17 and ends February 28/18. 8 week course. Coached by Karon Mathies.
10K Run Course at Brainsport starts Monday, 6 p.m., Nov. 27/17 and ends Feb. 26/18. 14 week course. Coached by Tarrant Cross Child.
1/2 Marathon Run Course at Brainsport starts Monday, 6 p.m., Nov. 20/17. 15 week course. Coached by Mike McKague.
#PatTrick Run Program. One low priced registration for three high quality long distance training courses. Starting Nov. 28/17, 6 p.m. at Brainsport. Coached by Pat Somerville.
For more information and register go to www.brainsport.ca. Or call the store at 306-244-0955.
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 3 at the Saskatoon Field House.
Visit www.saskatf.ca for more information, and for details on how to register to compete, or volunteer.
Fall Cross Training, Family Fitness, and Triathlon Training
Registration is now open for Transition Sport and Fitness fall programs including family-friendly fall fitness, cross training for runners and triathletes, virtual Pilates, swim skills sessions, and the fall triathlon training programs. Visit http://www.transitionsportandfitness.ca for more info or contact
Yoga For Runners
Come experience the benefits of yoga for runners, with the Breath Move Be instructors at Namaskar Yoga Studio - 615 2nd Avenue North. $125 pre-registered and $17 for drop in (if available space). Classes being offered from September 5 to November 7. Register by contacting http:
Product of the Week
Kid's Winter Boots
Keeping the kid's feet warm and dry can be a challenge through the fall and winter months. At Brainsport we have winter boots in a variety of styles and colours, for both girls and boys - ranging in sizes from toddler 8 to youth 6. Come on in and we'll help get the right fit for your child!
Thanks for reading the Times this week . . gotta run . . .Tara