#WeAreAC

I just wanted to take a few minutes to thank both Rob Guy and Peter Eriksson, the CEO and Head Coach, respectively, of Athletics Canada.

After looking over the newest carding list, I had a few separate conversations with other athletes from around the country about a particular athlete being on the list. I figured, if I am having this conversation with a few different people, I'm almost certain many other people are as well.

I decided to email Rob and Peter about the concern. I sent my initial email at 9:30pm on Nov 4. I woke up to a reply from Rob sent at 6:15am the next day, and around 10:30am I received a phone call from Peter to talk about the issue.

Both interactions were very informative and productive. I suggested to both of them that a document explaining how each athlete made it on to the carding list might be beneficial in helping people understand under which criteria each individual was selected. Within 2 days of this suggestion, that exact document was released in a newsletter and posted on the website.

For those of you who still think that the higher-ups at Athletics Canada are the bad guys, you are mistaken. Everyone at Athletics Canada recognises the old stigma that has been attached to the governing body for the last number of years, and are truly doing things to change this.

They have been holding meetings all across the country explaining their new direction and regularly mentioning things in the newsletter. I have made a point to be a presence at all of these meetings in my area, and read everything they have published. It's disappointing for me to say that at the meetings I have been to over the last year, Kate and I were either 2 of very few athletes, or the ONLY 2 athletes there.

I encourage all of you to make a point to read the #WeAreAC newsletters, as well as anything else you may find in your inbox from Athletics Canada; there is some really great information in there. I also plead you all to make sure to go out to any meetings that they may hold near you.

As athletes, we are always keen to raise problems and complain to one another. While this may be a good release for some, it's the least productive way to go. Please, reach out to the Athletics Canada with any questions or concerns you have. Peter and the rest are always happy to hear from you. If you don't feel comfortable going straight to the top, there are always the athlete representatives, Inaki Gomez and Jennifer Joyce, who we as athletes elected. This is their job, and I know they will be happy to aid in any way they possibly can!

I truly believe that Athletics Canada is trying to change their ways and break down old walls, but if we, as athletes, don't believe that, do our part, and meet them halfway, nothing will ever change.

Just like in politics, if you aren't involved, you can't complain!

#WeAreAC