FAQ

Q: We’ve never joined track before, do we have to run competitively?

A: We have individuals that have different backgrounds, goals and expectations. All ages can join the club from 9 all the way up to high school level and beyond. We have a mix of different athletes, from those who do it recreationally and just enjoy the extra exercise, to individuals with aspirations of competing at a Provincial or National level. You can feel free to go at it at your own pace, with lots of training time and competitive meets to get yourself acquainted.

Q: We’re interested to join, what do we need to do?

A: First step is to complete the online registration form here and submit your application along with the annual membership fee. You can pay online with a credit card. This membership due includes payment to BC Athletics so that you become an official member. After that, you can check out our training schedule and just show up with a good pair of running shoes and a water bottle. We normally run our training in the Fall/Winter at Burnaby South’s Indoor Track and at Burnaby Central during the Spring/Summer season at their outdoor track. Come on out and you can jump right into our daily training.

Q: I’m interested to compete at a formal track & field meet. How do I register?

A: We try to post a list of upcoming sanctioned events under our Meet Schedule webpage. You can click into the link that will take you to the official Trackie website where more detailed information is provided on the competition. You can read it to see if it is appropriate for you/your child. If interested, then there is an associated link to register online. Once you select your chosen event(s) and pay the sign up fee, all you have to do is show up to the event about 1-2 hours in advance. Our coaches will be there to support warm up activities.

Q: What equipment do I need?

A: For practice sessions, runners and a water bottle is more than sufficient. If you have running spikes, you can bring those to training for specific sprinting exercises. For competition day, although spikes are not mandatory, they are highly recommended – especially as you get into the older age groups. As well for competition, you will need to purchase a singlet uniform - which can be made here.

Q: Do you do any field training?

A: Generally our seasonal schedule involves indoor training in the Fall/Winter months (which includes time in the weight room for older athletes) and outdoor training in the Spring/Summer months. Burnaby Striders is predominantly focused on running events, but based on demand we do try to accommodate interest in field events such as long jump, high jump, shot put, javelin. You can speak directly with the coaches on what area of focus you or your child had in mind and they will offer up recommendations.

Q: Do I have to show up every day for practice?

A: We have athletes who never miss a practice and others who drop in based on what works for them. Many plan to pursue track competitively and others just wish to get some physical activity in. We also have many who participate in other sports (ie – soccer, hockey, football, etc) and show up to Striders on their off-days to supplement their training. It’s whatever your goals are and what works for your schedule.

Q: Are there any discounts on your registration fee?

A: Burnaby Striders is a not-for-profit organization and all revenues raised are reinvested back into the club and its members. We review our plan annually to ensure we are charging our members at a rate that is no more than necessary to cover our operational expenses. We reduced our membership fees back in 2020, and have kept them at the reduce rate as a response to COVID-19. Burnaby Striders has one of the lowest (if not the lowest) membership fee structure out there in the market. Rates are reviewed annually at our AGM meetings. Families that require financial assistance for their athlete(s), can apply through programs like Canadian Tire JumpStartKidSportAthletics4Kids. Please visit their website for more information.