The Abbotsford Triathlon Club is finding unique ways of staying active during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ATC, which has 60 members from all over the Fraser Valley, has cancelled all its group workouts for the time being, but they are using social media and technology to keep members engaged.
“We’ve been able to motivate and educate our members through this most unusual time, by using social media and virtual realty training platforms,” said ATC coach Kevin Heinze. “Our head coach, Mikey Ross has been instrumental, in using Facebook to communicate with club members, offering training tips on how best to remain athletic and mentally positive.”
The club has also partnered with another local athletic group, Phoenix Velo Training Group in virtual reality bike rides. Earlier this month saw Phoenix Velo club president Geoff Oram and his club members join ATC members on a virtual group ride using the virtual reality cycling application Zwift.
The ATC is also helping out promoting races with local race organizer Mitchell Hudson from Try Events. He is offering a virtual race called ‘You Are Not Alone’, in which participants can sign up, chose the running race distance of their choice, run the distance following social distancing protocol, and then submit the results. Participants will be awarded virtual medals for their performances.
Henize said he and the other ATC members are mostly looking forward to one day getting the chance again to enjoy the great outdoors of the Fraser Valley. Heinze, along with club members are planning a huge reunion for when the current COVID-19 crisis is over.
“I’m sure that our members will have an even greater appreciation for each other and the tremendous opportunities that the Fraser Valley gives us for being active, when things do return to normal,” Heinze said.
To learn more about the club, visit abbytriclub.com or check out their Facebook page.
