AN ATHLETE ON A MISSION

FUELING THE DREAM

STUBBORN PASSION

It was in the small town of Roberts Creek, nestled between the Salish Sea and the Coastal Mountains that I discovered my passion for running. At age twelve, I saw a brochure for the BC Lung Association’s Climb the Wall event at the Sheraton Wall Centre. I was both excited and daunted by the challenge.

Living in a small, isolated community has its perks but one thing Roberts Creek certainly doesn't have are skyscrapers. To prepare for my first race, I would sprint up and down the single flight of stairs in my family home with my father, on the couch, calling out splits.

The training methods I use for stair-climbing have evolved over the years; I moved from one flight to repeats of a 30 story Vancouver high-rise, right up to interval sessions in a 60 floor skyscrapers.

My intrigue with tall buildings has led me to UBC where, competing as a varsity track, field and cross-country athlete, I obtained a degree in Civil Engineering. I then completed a second degree in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Victoria. Postponing my career in astrophysics, I have decided to chase my dream of becoming one of the best tower runners in the world.

While stair-climbing competitions consume my winters, mountain running has become my primary focus year round, finishing on the podium at the last two Canadian Championships. I have also become involved in Obstacle Course Racing and am working hard at mastering the strengths and skills necessary to excel in the unique sport.