Local club lays out welcome mat for all

May 6, 2010

...as printed in the Brampton Guardian Booster

On any Saturday or Sunday, if you see a motley group of runners or cyclists, happily tacking the open road, chances are they are members of the Fletcher's Meadow Cross Trainers (FMCT).

The Brampton-based non-profit group has 100 members, some that train together for various triathalon and running events and others who are embarking on their very first fitness journey.

The multi-sport club, which caters to individuals with different levels of fitness, was established in 2003 with just eight members and since then has grown mostly from word-of-mouth says Kelly Hanson, social coordinator, FMCT.

"Our organization is for people who are like-minded and really excited about life," Hanson said. "The club is an inviting place where people can come to be healthy and have fun, lots of fun."

Well-known Brampton athletes Jim Dalzell and Laura Gazolla agree.

Dalzell who has successfully participated in some five Ironman Triathalonon, - a series of long-distance triathalon races, consisting of a 3.86 kilometre swim, a 180.25 kilometre bike and a 42.195 kilometre marathon, raced in that order and without a break, said FMCT has allowed him to forge friendships with people with common interests.

"It (FMCT) has allowed me to have opportunities to travel and reach physical and mental levels that I didn't think were possible," said Dalzell, who recently took part in the Boston Marathon. "The club has taught me hot to set goals, reach them and set higher goals and reach those... all of which I translate into my working life as well."

Gazzola said just like Dalzell, she too has been motivated to test new limits of fitness and endurance, while enjoying the process.

Others such as Colin Chung, a Brampton resident who joined the club a year ago, said even thought he's a relative beginner when it comes to swimming, biking, or running, at FMCT, he invariably manages to find someone with similar fitness levels and goals as himself.

"As a rookie, I never got intimidated by these athletes because they make me feel so welcome," said Chung. "I'm running with Jim (Dalzell) who's a lot faster than I am, but there's a camaraderie and togetherness. So, when they embrace you that way it feel comforting."

Cost of an annual membership at FMCT is . For more details visit www.fmct.ca.