Interview with Adam Hortian
This year, I am adding a new monthly feature on the last Friday on the month where I do an interview or a Day In the Life of an elite or high level runner.
I always find it fascinating to hear their stories and read about what makes them successful. This month, I caught up with Adam Hortian, a local runner who has represented Canada internationally six times and has some impressive personal bests.
He is also the head coach of Fastisfun, a new group in Waterloo.
What got you into running?
I started running in the summer going into grade 10. A friends dad, Mr. Zantinge was heading out the door for a training run one day and I was curious as to what that entailed. He told me he would be running for 2-3 hours. On a Sunday. I asked if I could join him next week and he said yes. Next Sunday came and I joined him. We went at a very manageable pace but the longer we went, the more of a battle it became. I made it the whole way that day and loved the feeling of accomplishment and adventure. These runs continued and I improved quickly until Mr. Zantinge came to me with a pamphlet for a local track club. A little confused by what a track club was I agreed, none the less. This is when I was introduced to the late great Coach Terry Goodenough. Within a year he helped me win OFSAA and the following summer I qualified for the World Youth Championships in Debrecen, Hungary. He wrote me step by step advice for each day I was there. I was 9th in my heat in a personal best time that ranked me 31st in the world amongst Youths.
In your 16 years of running, what has been a highlight that stands out in your mind?
I think qualifying for my first Senior National Team was a highlight for me as I felt it was taking a successful step from my accomplishments as a junior. Travel associated with junior and senior events has also been an incredible opportunity. I’ll never forget visiting my family in Glasgow and West Kilbride after standing on a starting line with World record holder and Olympic champion Bekele.
Who have been your greatest mentors?
I have had so many patient, kind and loving mentors in my life. I have accomplished nothing on my own. Its all been through the support of my wonderful family and unique friends.
What is your next big goal for yourself?
At this time I am focusing on working on my turnover. I have found that staying in touch with my fasttwitch has been huge when added to a solid base fitness. Additionally, qualifying for the Olympic Trials sure sounds like it could be alluring.
As a coach, what is one of the greatest issues that you encounter with your athletes?
Getting an athlete to believe in themselves is the biggest and most important challenge I face as a Coach with Fastisfun. There are so many obstacles to overcome in life but I understand that we runners are not a breed accustomed to throwing in the towel.
What are some of the key pieces of advice you give your athletes?
Trust your Coach. Enjoy the journey.
If an athlete was wondering about how to be coached by you, what is the best steps to take?
Interested in Fastisfun Certified Personal Coaching Services contact Coach Adam Hortian via
519-496-9191
ahortian@gmail.com
Fastisfun.ca
Facebook: Fastisfun Group Page
Twitter: @hortian
Want to read a bit more about the group? Read an interview I did with him regarding more information on his coaching approach with FastisFun on the RunWaterloo blog last week.
EVENT NOTICE: If you live in Waterloo area, Fast Is Fun is introducing a Free Weekly Group Run open to anyone with Adam and some of his athletes. It starts next Thursday, February 4 at 6 PM and you better believe I will be there. We will be running the 8 KM Re-Fridgee-Eighter route in anticipation for the event on Feb 21 (a race I just might end up getting talked into doing…) Wide range of pacing available and there will be recovery drinks afterwards.
Email me at lacesandlattes(a)gmail.com for more details.
