When death is in the name, you know it’s going to be tough. But, this year, death was no match for Jasper’s resilient athletes—neither was 24 Hours of Adrenalin or the Banff Marathon or the Sinister Seven in Crowsnest Pass.
In all four events, from Grande Cache to Canmore, Jasper’s heartiest athletes battled their way to the podiums, proving Jasper as a breeding ground for fast and fit runners and cyclists.
From ultramarthon runner, Tracy MacDowell’s first place finish in last week’s Death Race to cyclist Ryan “Corporal Punishment” Gardiner’s winning ride at 24 Hour Adrenalin, Jasperites are dominating Alberta’s endurance events.
There’s no question why our community is rife with successful athletes.
The answers are built right into the culture of the community.
For one thing, the movers and shakers of Jasper are all athletes themselves. It starts all the way at the top with Mayor Richard Ireland and carries through the community to Fire Chief Greg Van Tighem, Freewheel Cycle’s Wendy Hall, Bear Paw Bakery’s Kim Stark, registered nurse Lorraine Wilkinson, Wild Mountain’s Dave MacDowell and Summit Massage and Wellness’s Lourdes Nunes, just to name a few.
People with a passion for physical activity flock to this place and once they do, they quickly find themselves swimming in opportunity.
There is a supportive community, with businesses and organizations that sponsor teams or host outings, creating opportunities for athletes to grow their skills and compete against athletes from across the country.
There are likeminded people, who are always willing to share some advice or give a swift kick in the butt when it’s needed.
And, of course, there are the mountains—the reason most of Jasper’s residents, whether they’re athletes or otherwise, make their way to the Rocky Mountains.
For athletes, the rough landscape provides the perfect training facility. There are endless trails fit for beginners and experts alike, allowing for a steady growth in skill and practise, and keeping boredom at bay.
So, like we said, there’s no question why Jasperites are throwing down at extreme endurance events this summer—they have all the tools for success.
Congratulations to everyone who competed this summer, each of your efforts has certainly made the community proud.
