Näak Ambassador Rachel Cliff

Professional Road Runner

VANCOUVER, BC

« Focus on the process not the outcome. »

I am an elite Canadian distance runner based out of Vancouver, BC. I grew up in Vancouver, where I first fell in love with the sport. I attended the University of Guelph in Ontario for my undergraduate degree, where I gained a B.Sc. in Biomedical Toxicology. After this - I moved back to Vancouver to complete an M.Sc. in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene before turning my attention to sports. I have represented Canada on numerous senior teams, including the IAAF World Championships (2017 & 2019), the Commonwealth Games (2018) and Pan Am Games (2019). I'm also the previous Canadian record holder in the Half Marathon and Marathon. In addition to loving running, I am also passionate about science, animals, travel and protecting the environment.

I fell in love with distance running when I was 11 years old, but I wasn't fast or competitive. I just enjoyed doing cross country running for my school and the occasional fun run with my mom. In grade 10, I joined a track club and started seeing success quickly. I managed to win a bronze medal at the junior national track championships in the 3,000m and selected my University based on the sport. I plateaued at University and had inconsistent results, but I started to believe in my abilities again when I won a few medals at the Canadian University Track Championships in the 1500m, 3,000m and cross country. I moved back to Vancouver, found myself in a supportive environment with a new track coach - the running community in Vancouver is great! With lots of help, I gradually worked my skill up to being a top distance runner in Canada.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

2019 Canadian Record in Marathon (Nagoya)

2019 Canadian Record in Half Marathon (Okayama)

2019 Pan American Games Bronze Medalist

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU EVERY DAY TO TRAIN?

"My love for the sport and desire to find out what I am capable of.

DO YOU HAVE A PERSON WHO INSPIRES YOU?

So many! Tough to just pick one.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE NUTRITION TIP TO SHARE ?

Balance is key - when possible, try to eat a variety of foods and don't restrict large food groups (unless you need to for health, ethical or religious reasons). Don't overthink nutrition, and make sure you have a healthy balanced diet with adequate protein and nutrient groups.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST RACING MEMORY?

My first time running at the World Athletics Championships. The event was held in London, and the fan base was amazing - the stadium was packed! My family & coach were all there watching. It was my first time on a senior national track team, and I managed to run a personal best, which was also very special.