Katie Button - Collingwood, Ontario
Training and racing out of Collingwood Ontario, this physiotherapist was the only age grouper present at the ITU Cross Championships in Spain in May, where she placed fourth in the 30 to 34 age group.
Inspired by a feature article on Christine Jeffrey and excited to learn that triathlon exists off road, Button entered the Canadian Xterra Championships in Whistler last September. Despite the technical bike course and grueling 12 km run, she qualified to represent Canada at the World Xterra Championship in Maui by placing third in her age group. According to Button, Maui was a “sufferfest,” adding that lava rock can be unforgiving on the skin. The experience was unforgettable, but she still wants to go back.
“Xterra racing connects more with nature and is about learning new skills. I much rather play in the trails than on concrete. You just need to get out there and try it.” Katie plans on racing the two Xterra duathlons at Hardwood Ski and Bike, the Eastern Xterra Championships in Quebec then onto Whistler again to complete for another chance at racing against the Worlds best in Maui. Her advice to triathletes is to join a local mountain bike group and get off road!