Attention: Athletes, Parents, and Coaches
The past two weeks have been challenging following the devastating collapse of the Dome at Louis Riel. While workers continue to assess the situation, significant damage has been identified, including large tears in the membrane that must be repaired before we can return. In the meantime, we are preparing alternative training locations until we resume training at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility in the spring.
These alternative facilities are not traditional track settings, but they will allow us to continue our programming in a manner similar to 2020 and 2021. During that period, despite disruptions, athletes across all age groups and disciplines achieved personal bests and qualified for championships. A determined and consistent athlete will find success with the options currently available.
I am providing an update on training venues below.
None of these solutions are perfect, and we greatly appreciate your patience and understanding during this transition.
Training Venues & Schedules
Aberdeen Pavilion (1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON K1S 5J3)
Starting Thursday, February 26
- Training times: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- This will be the main training hub for our Youth, Foundation, and Aspire programs, as well as other groups requiring a large indoor space.
Important Notes:
✅ Footwear: Bring a separate pair of shoes to avoid tracking mud and water into the facility.
✅ Temperature: The venue is not heated throughout the day—dress in layers. Distance groups will train outdoors for most sessions.
✅ Equipment: All members (youth to competitive) should bring a yoga mat for ground dynamics and core workouts.
❌ No Spikes: The floor is concrete.
💧 Hydration: Bring plenty of water—only one water source is available on-site.
Youth Program
- Start Date: Monday, March 3
- Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- March Break: Training will continue during March Break to compensate for missed sessions.
Foundation Program
- Start Date: Thursday, February 27
- Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- March Break: No practices during March Break.
Aspire Program
- Start Date: Thursday, February 27
- Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- March Break: No practices during March Break.
- Distance Groups: May use the venue to warm up/store gear and train along the canal and surrounding pathways. The hexagon path is a near-perfect 400m loop.
Competitive / Varsity / Masters
- Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays | 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Training runs until April 12.
- Distance Groups: May use the venue to warm up/store gear and train along the canal and surrounding pathways.
Terry Fox Athletic Facility Gym
We will offer weight room and high-speed treadmill sessions over the next few weeks.
- Booking: Sessions must be scheduled in advance. Two-hour time slots will be available throughout the day when staff are present.
- Booking Contact: Email rjohnston@ottawalions.com to schedule.
- No-Show Policy: If you fail to show up without providing 24-hour notice, you will lose future booking privileges.
📅 Schedule & Availability: Click here to view available hours.
🏅 Priority Access:
- National Team members
- Carded athletes
- Quest for Gold recipients
- Athletes who met 2024 National Championship or U SPORTS standards
🚴 High-Speed Treadmill Usage:
- This treadmill is for high-speed training only (not for casual long runs).
- Limited bookings will be available to ensure effective training sessions.
Carleton Fieldhouse
- Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Surface: Rubberized track with very tight turns—best suited for short speed work.
- Available Equipment: Blocks and scissor hurdles.
- Restrictions: Turf field not available due to soccer team training.
St. Lawrence University (Indoor Track Sessions)
- Time: Saturdays | 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Cost: $25 travel fee per session.
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, February 26 at 11:00 AM
- Sign-Up Link: Click here to confirm attendance.
If we secure additional dates as the outdoor season approaches, we will organize more trips.
Final Notes
It has been a frustrating few weeks, and we truly appreciate your patience and commitment. We are actively searching for additional training venues and will keep all members updated as new options become available.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.
Richard Johnston
Head Coach / Director
📧 rjohnston@ottawalions.com