Squamolian writer Randy Klassen will drop by Armchair Books in Whistler on Nov. 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to promote his new book: Perhaps Joy is the Reward. This book documents the author's personal journey from non-athlete to ultramarathon runner in his 50s, learning all kinds of things about himself and the sport he now loves.
Among other things, Perhaps Joy is the Reward covers Klassen's experience with a pair of Coast Mountain Trail Running (CMTR) events: the Squamish 50 Mile in 2017 and five years later, the Squamish 50/50. It's a particularly timely read given CMTR frontman Gary Robbins' on-the-record words about his dealings with Vail Resorts, the cancellation of Whistler Alpine Meadows (WAM) and UTMB Group's controversial announcement of a new World Series race: Ultra Trail Whistler.
A promo for the book reads: "Inspired by run club members who, for years, told Randy K to 'write those stories down,' PJR offers insights into the journey of one runner through BC's Lower Mainland trail running races and personalities.
"Written for a broad audience, PJR reveals how mental change and physical and personal growth occur when we step up to try something utterly new, challenging, and unforeseen (like trying to complete a 100-mile ultramarathon before you turn 60). It’s a book that will challenge readers to look beyond what they're doing today and ask, 'What could be next for me? What unplanned trail can I take? Who will I become if I take that chance?'"
