2013 Year in Review

With the new year upon us there's no better time to reflect on the trip around the sun that was. The ups and downs that come with being an athlete, and to be honest, just being human is challenging at the best of times and this year was no different. With success there always seems to be failure, whether its from an athletic standpoint or in your personal life, things just seem to come up. With all things in consideration, it was an interesting year.

Blue Mile

This race was far less dramatic than the 2012 edition, considering the winner didn't make the NY times for all the wrong reasons. (See 2012 year in review for more) the race in itself was great, good weather, good people and good legs all adds up to a good day. I finished 3rd right behind Chiff Childs of RRAC. 

Edmonton International Track Classic

Formerly known as the Donovan Bailey Invitational, the Edm international is a premier track meet in North America which attracts some best athletes in the world. This was no different this year with numerous Olympians in attendance. I competed in the crowd pleasing devils 5km. Coming in as defending champ, I felt pretty confident with my ability to walk away with another victory, and that's exactly what I did. 

 Cruising

 If you really want a picture I guess you can take one

 Jubilation

I get flowers too

Edmonton ITU

Up next was the Edmonton ITU World Cup. At this point in the season, I still hadn't raced any Continental Cups in order to gain qualification points towards a World Cup start. I raced the open 20-29 race instead and had an "okay" race considering a few hick-ups in the swim.

2013 ITU Ottawa Duathlon u23 World Championships

This race was a tough pill to swallow. I had difficulties getting into a good routine the week leading into the race, and coupled with a lingering back problem proved to be problematic as I was forced to DNF during the bike portion due to lower back pain. 

2013 Athletics Canada National 10km Championships

With my 2nd overall performance at the 2013 Calgary 10km, Athletics Alberta selected me to represent the province at the Oasis 10k Zoo-Run which was also Elite 10km National Championships. The field was stack with more Olympians than you can count on one hand. 

2013 CIS Cross Country Season

University of Alberta Golden Bear

Once again I completed for the University during this years Cross Country season. The season was highlighted with the Golden Bears and Pandas winning Stewart Cup in demanding fashion and I also had the honour of wearing the coveted Stewart Shorts during this race. 

CIS National Championships

London Ontario

The big dance for CIS Cross Country competition was held at Western University in London. It was a blast, great city, awesome course and great friends made for an unforgettable weekend