Athletics Ontario Running Podcast

What happens when you trade a tennis racket in Peru for the grueling Canadian ultramarathon circuit? In this episode, we sit down with Sergio Raez Villanueva, an elite long-distance runner whose "gutsy" racing style recently took him all the way to India to represent Canada at the 50K World Championships. Sergio opens up about his profound transition from a Peruvian immigrant to a national-level athlete, revealing how he used running as a meditative lifeline to navigate the hurdles of a new life. We trace his evolution from the fast-paced world of collegiate cross country to the grit of high-level ultras, exploring how he manages to balance a demanding full-time career with an intensity that sees him tackling the Ottawa 10K and marathon in a single weekend. Sergio shares the mindset behind his upcoming "go big or go home" season—which includes his daunting first attempt at a 100-mile trail race at Sulphur Springs 2026—while reminding us that even in a solitary sport, it is the pulse of the community and a deep sense of cultural pride that truly fuels his fire. Learn more about Sergio at: https://www.instagram.com/sergioraezv/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

How do you turn grief into a movement? This episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast features Neil McKay, founder of Persistence Racing, marking five years of resilience in London, Ontario. We explore the launch of Fox Stride, a unique "double dash" track event, and the deeply personal motivation behind Neil's mission. After navigating family tragedy and recovery, Neil's experiences with the London Children's Hospital inspired his London 100—a 100km solo challenge to raise $5,000 for pediatric care. It's a powerful look at finding purpose through pain and the profound impact of running for something bigger than yourself. Learn more about Neil at: https://www.instagram.com/persistenceracing/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

Find out about one of Canada's most promising distance runners! This week on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we're joined by Jadyn Keeler, the University of North Dakota standout and Canadian Track and Field League (CTFL) athlete currently shattering records in the 5,000m and 10,000m. Jadyn joins us to discuss her unconventional path to the NCAA, her independent recruitment hustle, and the reality of being an international student navigating NIL endorsements. But it's not all track—Jadyn also dives into her demanding double major in Molecular Biology and Geography, explaining how she balances high-level scientific research with an elite training schedule. Highlights include: - The Pivot: Transitioning from the rink to elite track and field. - Technical Talk: A deep dive into the "double threshold" training method. - Olympic Dreams: Her roadmap to representing Team Canada at LA 2028. - Longevity: Essential advice for young athletes on consistency and health. Whether you're a coach, an athlete, or a fan of the sport, Jadyn's story of scientific precision and athletic grit is a must-listen. Learn more about CTFL at: https://www.instagram.com/jadynkeeler/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

What is the future of Canadian athletics? The Canadian Track and Field League (CTFL) is rewriting the script. In this episode, we're joined by Erin Teschuk, Sam Kenahan, Matthew Lozano, and Saed Griffith to discuss how a unique team-based structure is building a sustainable home for track and field talent in Canada. Episode Highlights: - From Roots to Results: The guys share stories of early inspirations—from childhood soccer to being coached by their fathers—and how those roots fuel their current Olympic and marathon aspirations. - The CTFL Blueprint: Why a team-centric format is the "secret sauce" for keeping the competitive fire alive after graduation. - The Mental Grind: A candid look at the resilience needed to bounce back from long-term injuries and the importance of a solid coach-athlete bond. - Community First: Discover the professional opportunities and community-driven culture defining this emerging era of Canadian track. Whether you're chasing a personal best or curious about the domestic circuit, this conversation offers a front-row seat to the future of the sport. Learn more about CTFL at: https://www.instagram.com/ctfl_official/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

For International Women's Day, we're burning the "shrink it and pink it" playbook. This week on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, Lindsay Housman, Founder and CEO of Hettas, joins us to explain why your running shoes have a gender problem. A woman's foot isn't just a smaller version of a man's—so why is the industry still treating it like one? We're diving deep into the biological grit: how hormones impact your ligaments, why your stride mechanics are unique, and how Hettas is using independent research to prevent the injuries the big brands ignore. From funding biomechanical studies to championing the women's decathlon movement, Lindsay is proving that gender-specific data isn't just a ""nice to have""—it's the key to performance and equity. Stop squeezing into a design that wasn't made for you and start running in a brand that actually knows your name. Learn more about Hettas at: https://www.instagram.com/wear_hettas/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

"We didn't just want a run club; we wanted a support system for Scarborough." What happens when two runners realize their neighborhood is missing a heartbeat? They build one themselves. In this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we sit down with Selina and Helga, the visionary co-founders of Scarbororuns, to celebrate a major milestone: their second anniversary. What started as a chance meeting while training at Thompson Park has evolved into a movement. Selina and Helga share the "origin story" of Scarbororuns, detailing how they identified a gap in the Scarborough fitness scene and decided to fill it—one stride at a time. What's Inside the Episode: - From Solo to Social: How a cold winter meetup transformed into a thriving community hub. - The "Sunday Service": A look inside their weekly schedule and why these sessions are about more than just mileage. - Inclusivity & Leadership: Why social health and local representation are at the core of everything they do. - The Road Ahead: A sneak peek into their future goals, from charitable initiatives to expanding their footprint across the community. Whether you're a marathoner or someone looking to take your first step, this conversation is a powerful reminder of how a shared passion for fitness can foster deep resilience and lasting connection. Learn more about Helga and Selina at: https://www.instagram.com/scarbororuns/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

In this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we sit down with Judith Kasiama, the visionary founder of Colour the Trails. Based in British Columbia, Judith uses her background in gender studies to bridge the representation gap for BIPOC individuals in adventure media, becoming one of the most influential voices in the outdoor industry. Highlights: - Building Community: How Colour the Trails creates safe spaces for trail running, mountain biking, and skiing. - True Allyship: Moving beyond performative gestures toward active listening and genuine trust. - Enriching Nature: Why diversity isn't a zero-sum game, but a way to add new perspectives and shared joy to the trails. Judith reminds us that representation provides "permission" to explore. It's time to move toward genuine inclusion and a more vibrant, collective outdoor experience. Learn more about Judith at: https://www.instagram.com/jujumil/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

What happens when you trade a destructive chase for a 100-mile journey? This week on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we sit down with Kofi Ayinde to discuss the transformative power of the trail. Kofi opens up about his journey to sobriety and how the grueling demands of ultra-running provided a healthy outlet for the dopamine hits he once sought elsewhere. Highlights: - The Dopamine Shift: How Kofi redirected his brain's reward system toward endurance and resilience. - Wabi Sabi on the Trail: Embracing life's imperfections to overcome the mental hurdles of long-distance running. - Community & Inclusion: A look at the inclusive culture at Sulphur Springs and the importance of diversity in the sport. - The Road to Canyons 100: Kofi reflects on the emotional strategies required to tackle his first 100-mile finish line. And make sure to check out https://www.instagram.com/outrunthedarkness/ Kofi's story is a powerful reminder that running isn't just about the miles—it's about discovering who you are when everything else is stripped away. Learn more about Kofi at: https://www.instagram.com/run.kofi.run/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

What does it take to run across the second-largest country on earth? This week on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we're joined by Ryan Keeping, the former construction worker who completed a staggering 98-day journey across Canada. Ryan opens up about the reality of averaging 75km daily and why he's dedicated his life to a mission much bigger than himself. Inside the episode: - The "Stubborn" Mindset: From physical labor to elite endurance—how Ryan developed the mental grit to survive 99 days on the road. - The Heart of the Run: Honoring the legacy of Terry Fox and raising vital funds for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. - The Ultimate Pit Crew: Why family support was the secret weapon for his expeditions in Canada and Iceland. - Going Pro: A look at his shift toward professional ultra-marathons, starting with a 300-mile race in Arizona. - The Unfiltered Truth: Ryan gets transparent about the financial struggles and the physical dedication needed to chase a career in extreme sports. Join us for an inspiring look at what happens when an ordinary person decides to do something extraordinary to inspire a new generation. Learn more about Ryan at: https://www.instagram.com/ryan.keeping/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

How do you transition from a casual runner to a professional powerhouse? This week, we sit down with elite Canadian ultrarunner Jazmine Lowther to discuss her rapid ascent in the trail world and the philosophy that keeps her moving. Jazmine dives into the "art" of training, explaining why structured data must coexist with creative exploration to prevent burnout. She also speaks candidly about her recovery from REDs (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport) and bone stress injuries, offering a vital look at why proper fueling is the ultimate tool for longevity. Key highlights from this episode: - The Data vs. Joy Balance: Finding the sweet spot between scientific training and the soul of running. - Healing Holistically: Real talk on overcoming REDs and prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains. - Empowering Women in Sport: Why elite female athletes should chase international competition and diverse sponsorships. - Grassroots Roots: How local races build the foundation for professional careers. Jazmine reminds us that while podiums are great, running remains a vital source of community and personal therapy. Learn more about Jazmine at: https://www.instagram.com/jazmine_lowther/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

What happens when the universe rewards a leap of faith? In this episode, we sit down with Scott Devenport, whose journey from quitting smoking to conquering 200-mile peaks is a testament to the transformative power of the trails. Scott doesn't just run; he lives it—maintaining a legendary "run streak" of at least 5km every single day. Episode Highlights: - The Evolution: How Scott traded cigarettes for sneakers, evolving from road racing to becoming an elite ultra-marathon champion. - The Mental Game: Discovering the profound "mental peace" found only in the wild, rugged backcountry. - The SOO 200 Magic: A raw look at a grueling 200-mile odyssey. Scott and our host John Shep recount navigating hallucinations and brutal terrain—an experience where Scott's character and community spirit shone brightest. - The Universal Shift: How being a "good human" in the depths of a race invited the universe to open new doors, leading to a total life reset: a new home, a new path, and a dream career with Sinister Sports. Whether you're an everyday runner or a mountain veteran, Scott's story proves that when you give your best to the trails, the universe has a way of giving it all back. Listen now and witness how one race can change a life forever. Learn more about Scott at: https://www.instagram.com/thegumprunner/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

"It's not about how fast you're going; it's about who you're moving with." In a world where running is often measured by PBs, carbon plates, and brand deals, Colin Strickland is doing something radically different. This week, we sit down with the founder of the Corners Run Crew in St. Catharines to talk about the power of the "Third Space" and why inclusivity must come before the stopwatch. Since founding the crew in 2019, Colin has pivoted away from the traditional competitive model to build a movement centered on social connection and mentorship. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just lace up for the fresh air, this episode is a deep dive into what it means to truly belong in the Ontario running scene. Whether you're looking to start your own crew or just need a dose of inspiration for your next mid-week run, Colin's insights on mentorship and inclusivity are a must-listen. Learn more about Corners Run Crew at: https://www.instagram.com/thecornersruncrew/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

What does it actually mean to be "unstoppable"? According to elite runner and coach Dr. Sasha Gollish, it isn't about never failing—it's about having the mental toolkit to keep moving forward. In this episode, Sasha joins us to dive into her innovative new project, Unstoppable. Part mental performance journal, part training companion, this isn't your typical "how-to" book. It is a hands-on resource designed to help the next generation of athletes bridge the gap between physical talent and psychological resilience. In This Episode, We Explore: - The "Unstoppable" Mindset: Why Sasha view's mental performance as a practice, not a destination. - Tools for Youth Athletes: How mood tracking and self-contained activities help young performers build confidence and focus. - Identity Beyond the Finish Line: Sasha opens up about her personal journey with injury and how mental skills help navigate the difficult shifts in identity that every athlete eventually faces. Whether you are a young athlete looking to level up, a coach searching for better ways to support your team, or a runner navigating your own comeback, this conversation offers a masterclass in resilience and grit. Learn more about Dr. Sasha Gollish at: https://www.instagram.com/sgollishruns/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

New Year, new parenting goals? You're not alone. This week on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, our host John Shep kicks off the episode by sharing his own resolution to become a more self-aware parent—setting the stage for a deep dive with renowned expert Jennifer Kolari, founder of Connected Parenting. Jennifer starts by swapping her therapist chair for running shoes, revealing how she uses running as a solitary, meditative form of self-care to recharge in nature. The conversation then shifts to the specific challenges faced by runner-parents, answering listener questions on: - The "Substitute Frontal Lobe": Understanding your vital role in helping children regulate their emotions. - Commitment vs. Quitting: Strategies for when your child wants to drop a sport or activity. - The Digital Battleground: Managing screen time, video games, and parenting in the digital age. We wrap up with practical, permission-giving advice for busy parents on how to prioritize their own training without the guilt. Whether you are logging miles or managing meltdowns, this episode is your toolkit for a more connected family life. Learn more about Connected Parenting at: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferkolari/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

Are you ready to test your limits right here in Ontario? Prepare for the ultimate test of endurance! We are joined by Race Director Eric D'Arcy of Crazy Cat Adventures to unveil The Ribbon 200—a grueling new ultra-challenge launching in June 2026. This isn't just a race; it is a wilderness odyssey featuring Ontario's only point-to-point 100-miler and a massive 200-mile out-and-back beast. Eric breaks down the punishing 24,000 feet of elevation gain and the raw beauty of the Bruce Trail from the Blue Mountains to the Caledon Hills. We dive into the event's unique "White Blaze" rule—requiring pure navigation with no extra course markings—and exactly what it takes to survive up to 100 hours on the trail. In this episode, we cover: - The Logistics of an Ultra: How a 5-day event comes together and the unique challenges of the out-and-back format. - The Price Tag Debate: Eric provides a transparent look at the costs behind a 200-mile race—from extensive staffing and sleep stations to park fees—and why it differs from your standard looped ultra. - Running for a Cause: How the event champions community spirit and raises vital funds for Bruce Trail conservation. Whether you are an aspiring ultramarathoner or just curious about what goes into organizing a massive endurance event, this is a conversation you won't want to miss! Learn more about the Ribbon 200 at: https://raceroster.com/events/2026/112833/the-ribbon-200 Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/