Editorial
As we go to press, the world is a vastly different place than it was just a few days ago, and by the time this issue appears in your mailbox, the covid- 19 pandemic will be that much further along its course. Despite the resulting race cancellations and postponements (including Tokyo 2020, now scheduled to take place in July 2021), our sport has benefitted in the short term as people take to the streets and trails in an effort to stay fit while practising social distancing. In the long term, no one knows whether things will return to quasi-normal – or whether the now-packed fall race schedule will still be vulnerable to the effects of this pandemic.
And if, heaven forbid, running outside should temporarily become a thing of the past, as it is in some European countries, here, at least, is some great reading to fuel your love of running. Andrew McKay’s story of who, besides Dayna Pidhoresky, was likely to race the women’s marathon at Tokyo 2020 reads like a whodunit – or, more appropriately, a who-will-do-it. Women who were planning spring races (all now postponed) to better their chances of being named to Team Canada are now waiting to learn whether they may have to re-qualify or demonstrate proof of fitness in 2021.
In their quest for superior performance, many elite athletes are adopting some form of fasting diet, and recreational athletes want to know if these diets will help them set new PBs. Registered dietitian and sport nutritionist Melissa Kazan presents a research-based examination of the strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if some form of fasting is right for you.
And while coronavirus has temporarily pushed the Megan Brown story into the background, the issues it raises are very much alive, even as coaches and athletes practise social distancing. Coach, journalist and former pro triathlete Kevin Mackinnon shares his point of view as someone who knows the issues – and the people involved in this story – from the inside.
And that’s just the features. As usual, our departments are full of entertaining and useful info about every aspect of your training, racing, recovering and fueling. Happy running, happy reading, and may you and your loved ones stay safe and healthy.
Anne Francis, Managing Editor @CanadianRunning