Thanks for taking the time for a Q&A with Triathlon BC! Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you first got involved with triathlon?

I grew up in Alberta but moved to the West Coast after university in 2000, thinking I’d stay a year or two. Twenty-five years later, I’m still here—I fell in love with the area, met my wife, and never looked back.

In 2019, I found myself out of shape and lacking energy and decided to change that. I started with a trainer, got into Orange Theory, and rediscovered running. I’d always cycled a bit, and when my brother-in-law signed up for a triathlon, he convinced me to join him. I just had to figure out how to swim! I originally registered for the UBC Sprint Triathlon in 2020, but after some friendly ribbing, I upgraded to the Standard distance. I loved it and have been racing ever since.

How did you become the president of Peninsula Multisport Club, and what inspired you to take on this leadership role?

I got involved with PMC leading up to my first triathlon, as I was looking to meet like-minded people, learn more about the sport, and take advantage of their coached swim sessions. The members were all welcoming and supportive, and I really enjoyed training with the group and getting to know everyone.

I was inspired to take on a leadership role because I wanted to give back in a way that felt meaningful to me. I’ve learned so much from the group, and I’m proud to have the opportunity to give back and contribute to the community that helped me so much. The executive group is outstanding and we work very well together.

What is the history of the club, and how has it evolved over time?

Peninsula Multisport Club was founded in 2007 by Sue Taylor and a group of like-minded friends, including Les Lommel, Damien Ohagen, and Paul and Andrea Williams. It began with coached swim sessions at the YMCA, led by Sue and her daughter Tara, and was formed in collaboration with Peninsula Runners and Peninsula Cycles—hence the name. Over time, the club expanded to include bike and run sessions, from computrainer workouts with Kevin Woolliams to open-water swims at Brian’s Lake in South Surrey.

As the Club has grown, we’ve added coached run and bike workouts, guest speakers, social events, open-water swims, and health & wellness sessions. While Sue has since moved on, her legacy of promoting health, fitness, fun, and lifelong friendships continues to thrive.

Can you describe some of the main activities and programs the club offers its members, and how it supports athletes of all levels, from beginners to seasoned triathletes?

The Club offers a full calendar of activities, including weekly coached swim, bike, and run sessions. In the winter, cycling moves to Zwift, where we field a couple of racing teams. Our signature event is the annual mini triathlon at Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre—a fun, welcoming race perfect for first-time triathletes. Beyond training, we also host social events and sessions on wellness and nutrition. Our membership includes athletes at all stages in their triathlon journey from members preparing for their first race to one hundredth! Check out the calendar on our website for all the events and activities coming up.

What’s the most memorable triathlon event or race you’ve participated in, and why does it stand out to you?

My most memorable triathlon was my first Ironman 70.3 in Calgary in 2021. Between the 30-degree heat, smoke drifting in from the Okanagan, and my own inexperience, it was a tough race. Everything was going well, and I was on track to finish in under six hours—until about 5 km into the run when my right calf started cramping badly. The next 16 km were a battle, alternating between walking and running, but quitting was never an option. Crossing that finish line, despite the struggle, was an incredible feeling. If you had asked me a decade prior, I would have laughed at the idea of completing a 70.3 and now I have my sights set on my first full in 2025.

As a business professional, triathlete, and father, how do you manage to balance it all? Any tips or hacks you’ve discovered?

I live by the motto train while my kids train. Most of my workouts happen early in the morning before the family wakes up and work obligations take over. In the evenings, I often drop my son off at soccer practice and use that time for a run or swim. This approach helps me balance training, family time, and other commitments.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in triathlon or considering joining the sport?

Join a community – A club or training group can provide motivation, guidance, and a lot of fun along the way.

Enjoy the journey – Triathlon is as much about the experience as it is about the finish line.

Most importantly, don’t overthink it—just sign up for a race and go for it! You are more ready than you think.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self when you first started competing in triathlons?

I’d tell my younger self to start triathlon way sooner, not take a 25-year break from swimming, and—most importantly—stretch! Your future self will thank you for it!

What’s your favorite bike route in the area, and what makes it so special?

My favorite route in the area loops around the peninsula into Crescent Beach, through White Rock Beach, and out to Abbotsford via Zero Avenue. It’s a perfect mix of stunning coastal views, fast straightaways, tough climbs, and exhilarating descents—especially the drop into White Rock Beach, which is just awesome! What a view!

When you’re not training or working, what are some of your favorite non-triathlon-related hobbies or activities?

I enjoy golfing, playing racquet sports, and cheering on my kids at their games.

What’s your go-to post-race or post-training meal that helps you recover and recharge?

I’m not sure it helps with recovery, but my go-to post-race treat/meal is pizza and a Coca-Cola! Nothing beats that combo after crossing the finish line.

Thanks for sharing your world with us Brad! All the best in the future.