North Vancouver

Teri Brigden is a runner and clinic leader for the Mountain Madness trail clinic. I have had the pleasure of running along side her for the past couple of years now and she always manages to bring a smile to my face. I t must be her positive, hardworking, and outgoing/adventurous attitude that I like so much. Teri gave birth to a beautiful baby girl 7 months ago and is already out rocking it in the trails. She recently completed the 25km Dirty Duo trail race and is here to tell us all about it, plus what it is like training with a brand new baby girl.

How did you get into trail running?

I used to run a lot in my early 20’s but it was completely road. After dealing with ITB issues I took a hiatus from running all together and then started back running by myself on the trails. It was great to be able to run again and the fact that the trails offer variability in terrain and are so much easier on the joints it works for me.

How long have you been running in the mountain madness trail clinic and when did you become a leader?

Once I discovered I loved the trails, I realized that I kept running the same route (BP between Grouse and Mountain Hwy) OVER and OVER again. After getting bored and lonely running the same route all the time, I was pumped when I saw the information at NSA. That was Jan 2008. I loved it so much I continued running with the group and became a leader in early 2009 (I think).

What was the biggest challenge while training for the clinic and nursing a new baby?

Oh goodness, I am incredibly lucky that I have a very supportive husband that will take care of my little one; however, I now have to get up at least an hour earlier than I did prior to having her. It takes a LOT of organization and planning these days to get out the door. In addition, I have to look after myself a lot more and need to think about her first and foremost when choosing pre, during and post run snacks and meals.

Why did you decide to do the Dirty Duo trail race, which is apart of Run The North Shore trail series?

In my opinion, the DD is the best 25km race out there! You not only have to train and race in all kinds of weather, the technicality of the route and the number of climbs and tough descents are incredibly challenging. It is THE BEST training one can do for upcoming race season and for me, it was a huge help in getting my fitness back and losing those extra pounds (not there yet but it sure paved the way)…..

What was your training like leading up to the event?

Reasonably varied but it certainly did not include enough stretching/yoga and I paid for it! I did a fair amount of cross training by climbing BCMC or the grind 3-4x/week and attending Mom n’ Baby Fitness & Bootcamp classes. It’s tough to get enough activity in when you have to incorporate baby. That said, there are so many

Do you have any pre-race rituals, the week of, day before, day of?

I know I should do more tapering, but for me, I tend to stick with my usual routine the week before. That said, I always take the day before a race off, try to stretch, drink more water, etc. and I ALWAYS lay out my race gear the night before.

What was your goal going into the DD25km?

Really to feel comfortable for the entire race and finish strong.

I know it was raining at the start of the race and there was snow on parts of the course, how did you fair with the weather?

The weather was fantastic for me. I love the wet weather when it’s not overly cold. Other than the slush at the top of Ned’s the weather was great and the warm winter conditions were the best in years.

What was the biggest challenge of the day? What were the best moments?

The biggest challenge was my body and the route. I forgot how tough a race it is and it took its toll on my ITBs. It reminded me about the importance of a good stretching/rolling & yoga program! The best moment was seeing my husband and baby at the gazebo on my way back to the finish line! I actually started to tear up and one of the volunteers asked me if I was ok!

What did you use for fuel?

I never leave home (be it a trip up BCMC or a 3 hour run) with out JUJUBES. In addition to my jujube stash I carried Mrs. May’s Ultimate Crunch, some sliced up Power Bar and Nutrigrain Bars. I am not a big fan of Gels so its tough to find good fuel that you can eat while hiking up a hill like Old Buck!

I saw that you are registered for the Knee Knacker 50km! How are you looking to prepare for your first ultra? Are you nervous?

Yes, I am looking very forward to it! I am not really nervous about it but rather very VERY excited about just getting in. I have always wanted to do it. I plan on training with the Knee Knacker training group on Sundays. In addition to that I plan on continuing with bootcamp & yoga classes as well as hiking BCMC and the grind. As for additional running, I hope to get in 1 hill training and 1 speed training workout per week that is if I can escape in the evenings.

How has your running life changed since have your baby?

My running life hasn’t changed that dramatically other than the fact that I have to rely heavily on my very supportive husband and need to be very organized before I go to ensure my daughter is going to have enough food, etc. in her to keep her happy ! I think I also now run with a bit of a different perspective. Although I still have personal goals, I am now just thrilled to be out there and enjoying my personal time!

What advice would you give to a beginner who Is looking at getting into trail running?

Well, I just tried to sell the clinic to some friends at Bootcamp, so let me see! The clinic offers something for everyone. There is every pace group out there and the leaders and other participants are friendly, supportive and can usually provide a bit of humour as well. Everyone is easy going and relaxed. You never have to worry about keeping up or finding your way and you get to run trails and routes you likely wouldn’t know or want to venture on to by yourself.

Good luck with all your race goals for 2010!!!!!

Interview by: Nicola Gildersleeve

Clinic Members