Fondo Clinics

How did you get into cycling?

I swapped my car for a bike almost 20 years ago, to lower the stress and the carbon footprint of my daily commute. Soon after, I started riding Fondos as a challenge and an adventure. And I discovered the most wonderful community – cyclists are self-selecting for great people.

What are you excited about for your clinic this year?

I’m excited for another successful year of helping a group of dedicated riders achieve their Fondo goals, especially by building the competence and confidence that ensures everybody gets to Whistler safely and right on time.

What coaching style can people expect from you?

Supportive, informative, and uncompromising on safety. I hope everyone feels welcome to bring their ‘wild and crazy,’ and then to overlay the skills and discipline that will make every other cyclist comfortable to ride beside you – or behind you – all the way to Whistler.

How did you get into cycling?

I grew up on the North Shore and have always enjoyed neighborhood and trail rides with my friends and family, but I’d say my start with true road cycling began about two years ago in Physio school. Only a few months into the very intense physiotherapy program, my friend and classmate Jasmine convinced me to borrow my moms old road bike (spoiler its my bike now), and do a Stanley Park loop with her. After that, I was hooked. Not only was cycling an incredible mental health break from school, but it was a way to hang out with friends while getting exercise. Since then, Jasmine and I have gotten other friends into cycling and have cycled around Vancouver, Kelowna, Bowen island and more. Fast forward to today, we are leading the Womens Fondo Clinic together and are excited to conquer the Sea to Sky in September!

What are you excited about for your clinic this year?

I am really excited to introduce people to the amazing sport of cycling. Just like it has been for me, I want it to be a weekly escape for people where they can feel comfortable moving their body, seeing the beauty of Vancouver, all while meeting other like-minded people. I am especially excited to lead the clinic out of the Kitsilano location as this is right in my backyard and home to some of my favourite cycling routes.

What coaching style can people expect from you?

It is really important to me that my clinic is fun, challenging and safe. While I want people to always feel comfortable and safe on their bike, I also want them to be pushed and challenged so that they can improve and reach their cycling goals, no matter how big or small those goals are. These rides won’t be a walk in the park, but they will certainly be fun!

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How did you get into cycling?

I am a life long cyclist. My passion for cycling as an adult is informed by the freedom I experienced as a kid. I loved exploring different parts of my neighborhood with the neighborhood kids and relished the independence cycling brought me. I have commuted by bike since college, toured and bike packed all over the province, travelled the world playing bike polo, and been road/gravel/group riding for years. Every time I am in the saddle I am brought back to the adventures I had as a kid. Not specific ones per se – but the feeling. I’m chasing it!

What are you excited about for your clinic this year?

I’m really excited to work with cyclists who have set the bar high for themselves and are pushing the boundaries of their perceived capabilities. As a high school teacher by day, I spend a lot of time getting youth to throw down personal challenges and commit to seeing them through. I’m excited to see people achieve their goals through discipline and challenge. Motivation comes and goes but everyone who signs up for the clinic has expressed a willingness to prove their discipline. I’m truly excited to meet you all!

What coaching style can people expect from you?

Attendees should expect transparency, openness, individualization, and most of all…fun (even if it’s that “type two” fun that is hard whilst doing it but rewarding when done). I also prioritize rider safety at every turn. As a ride leader for a local cycling club I am certified to ensure that our rides and all riders are aware of expectations. Also, I am your biggest supporter and you will definitely hear that from me. I am passionate about cycling and teaching and I firmly believe that all goal setting and learning is relational. We are in this together.

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How did you get into cycling?

I’ve been cycling everywhere my entire life; from neighborhood rips to racing crits I’d rather cycle than walk.

What are you excited about for your clinic this year?

I’m excited to share my great love for and knowledge of cycling with those who are eager to learn.

What coaching style can people expect from you?

My coaching style is supportive, learner focused & interactive.

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How did you get into cycling?
I’ve always been on a bike, but didn’t really get interested in group road riding till my 50’s.  I decided to train for the RBC GranFondo Whistler, bought myself a road bike and joined a SportsMed clinic.  The coach and group was fantastic, I did the race and made new friends that I still ride with today, years later.  I’m currently a member of Steveston Velo Club and participate in many cycling events.

What are you excited about for your clinic this year?
I would like help people who may be entertaining the idea of a big cycling event like the RBC GranFondo Whistler, to develop the confidence and strength to complete their goal.

What coaching style can people expect from you?
I’ll have a game plan of training for each session, but I like to listen to what people are trying to accomplish for the day.  I want to be able to help people develop skills and confidence so they can accomplish just as much outside the clinic as when they are with our group.  I’ll push you, if that’s what you want that day, but self -awareness and the ability to motivate yourself are tools I hope to instill in my participants.

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