Local chiropractor and triathlete Dr. Clay Ward is set to represent the Comox Valley at the Xterra world championships in Maui on Oct. 27.
"Setting aside enough time to train is tough right now,” says Ward, who is in the process of getting his new clinic, Dynamic Spine, Sport & Wellness, up and running for Nov. 1.
“It’s all about balance,” he says. “I’m currently spending most of my time at the clinic to ensure that everything is on schedule for Nov. 1, which means that I have to plan efficient and effective workouts.”
Ward will face tough competition in Maui – both professional and amateur athletes will be competing in the three-stage race. Athletes will have to be in peak condition to master the difficult course, which has been described as a tropical roller coaster.
The race begins with a 1.5 km rough water swim near D.T. Flemmings Beach in Kapalua, is followed by a 30 km mountain bike ride up and down the slopes of the West Maui Mountains, and concludes with a 10 km run along steep dirt trails through oleander fields and around mountain lakes.
Ward has his sights set on the world championship title for his category, but recognizes that it is a major accomplishment just to have qualified for the prestigious event.
“It is a fantastic opportunity just to be able to compete at this level,” Ward says. “Regardless of the outcome of the race, my main focus when I return to the Comox Valley will be on ensuring the success of Dynamic, and treating the thriving active community of the Comox Valley.”
Dynamic Spine, Sport, & Wellness is a health clinic specializing in sports medicine and active wellness for residents of the Comox Valley and area. While the clinic will focus on chiropractic care initially, Ward is looking to incorporate additional health disciplines over the coming year, with an aim to ensure that patients have access to holistic care, helping them achieve their health and performance goals.
Dynamic opens for business on Nov. 1 and booking will be available one week in advance. The clinic is located at 1532 Cliffe Ave. (250-871-6200). For more information visit www.dynamicspinesportwellness.com.
Victoria Victory
Ward has a Doctor of Chiropractic from the University of Western States in Portland, Oregon. After practising for two years in Victoria, Ward and his wife decided to move to the Comox Valley, where she grew up. Ward is originally from Elkwater, Alta. – he currently lives in the Comox Valley with his wife, Natalie and dog, Coulee.
Ward is an avid cyclist (road and mountain), runner, and swimmer. He also enjoys hiking, skiing, and camping/backpacking with his family. Since moving back to Canada from the United States, Ward has excelled at triathlon, specifically off-road triathlon, finishing first in his category in this year’s Victoria Xterra.
Xterra is an off-road triathlon race series, which includes more than 20 races annually worldwide. Xterra race distances and terrain vary depending on the location – some races are located in tropical climates, while others take place in snowy mountainous regions. The Xterra world championships are held in Maui each year. For more information, visit www.xterraplanet.com.