Presented by Exercise Is Medicine – On Campus and Lancer Recreation, the Move For Mason Triathlon supports the Fight Like Mason Foundation and its work advancing childhood cancer programs in our community. (PHOTO BY Alessia Babister/UNIVERSITY OF WINDSOR)
By John-Paul Bonadonna
The swimming lanes will be full, the spin studio will be buzzing and the running track will echo with beats and cheers on Sunday, March 29 as the Toldo Lancer Centre hosts the second annual Move for Mason Triathlon.
Presented by Exercise Is Medicine – On Campus and Lancer Recreation, the high-energy indoor event supports the Fight Like Mason Foundation and its work advancing childhood cancer programs in our community.
A perfect opportunity to try a tri
Unlike traditional long-distance triathlons, Move for Mason is designed to be accessible and welcoming.
“It’s very much like a fun run,” says Mike McMahon of Lancer Recreation.
“In addition to individuals doing all three aspects, we allow teams of three to compete. So, if you’ve got a buddy who really loves swimming, someone else who wants to bike and you’re up for the run, you can make it work.”
The race distances are approachable: a 750-metre swim of pool laps, a 10-kilometre (stationary) bike ride and a 3-kilometre run. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or simply looking for a new challenge, the event strikes a balance between fun and fitness.
Teams rotate through each station in staggered starts, creating a dynamic, high-energy atmosphere throughout the building.
“If you register as a threesome, the two teammates who aren’t competing at that moment are there to cheer you on,” notes McMahon.
“It’s kind of cool when you’re in the spin studio and your teammates are right there. Then you wrap up on the track with everybody watching.”
Fitness with purpose
At its heart, Move for Mason is about more than competition. The event reflects the mission of Exercise Is Medicine – On Campus, a UWSA-ratified student club dedicated to promoting the physical, mental and social benefits of activity.
In partnership with Lancer Recreation, last year’s Move For Mason event raised just over $5,000 for the Fight Like Mason Foundation.
For the foundation, the partnership is especially meaningful.
“Events like this are some of our absolute favorites,” says Iain Macri of the Fight Like Mason Foundation.
“Not only does it help us raise funds for our childhood cancer programs, but it also allows us to engage with the University community, share our story, purpose and how we are going about making a change in the world of childhood cancer.”
The foundation will be on site throughout the day with information about its programs — and plenty of swag for participants and supporters.
Move to join the movement
Registration is now open.
Students can use the Fusion Play app and sign in using their @uwindsor.ca credentials. Community members can also use the app to register using organization code PLAY1. After selecting a relay, double or single entry, participants complete payment through links available on the Exercise is Medicine (@eimoc_uofw) Instagram channel.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, looking for a team-building opportunity, or simply wanting to support an important cause, this is a chance to move with purpose.
