Blair Junior
If you're from Edmonton, you probably already know who our featured runner is. We are excited to have local business owner / DJ / community leader / all around great human, Blair Junior!
Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m Blair Junior from Edmonton, Alberta. I’m a co-owner/operator of Lock Stock Coffee, Red Star, and Chameleon (The Bower). Also I’ve been DJing for the past 23 years and have been the resident DJ at our weekly House night For Those Who Know, which started at Halo in 2001. Throughout the years I’ve played alongside artists such as Frankie Knuckles, Louie Vega, Mark Farina, Osunlade, Soul Clap, DJ Sneak, Felix Da Housecat and many more. I’ve had the opportunity to play throughout Canada, Seoul, and Ibiza.
We're very excited to get back on that Bower dance floor! As someone who has so much going on, how do you find time to fit in runs/workouts?
You make time! Everybody has the same 24 hours in a day. There is no excuse.
How does music play a part in your workout routine? Do you find yourself having to create the perfect playlist before you run?
Music is a necessity for my runs and workouts. I always listen to upbeat and soulful house sets from my favourite DJs to get inspiration. My favourite DJs to listen to are Louie Vega, Derrick Carter, Mark Farina, and Honey Dijon.
What got you into running in the first place? I know you mentioned you did club track. Did you take it further after high school?
I’ve always been into running since I was young competing as a sprinter for the St. Albert Track Club. After High School I put competing in track & field aside and got into DJing and club culture. Over the years I’ve maintained fitness from playing men’s league soccer, weight training, and running.
What is your main motivation when running?
Running is my form of meditation and conditioning. I want to make sure that I’m conditioning my body for the future.
What do you enjoy most about running?
I love the runners high you get when running long distances. Also, I prefer to run through the trails to take advantage of the beautiful scenery of our River Valley.
What do you not like about running?
When the wind slows you down.
Have you been injured before? If yes, what sort of injury and how did you overcome it?
Never been injured (knock on wood).
Do you have any advice on how to avoid injuries?
Make sure to stretch, do mobility exercises, and take rest days.
Other than your running shoes, what is the most important running gear for you?
Headphones and sunglasses!
Do you have a memorable running experience/story to share with us?
During the first lockdown of the pandemic I challenged myself to run 3 times a week. I started with 5 km and worked my way up to running my first half marathon.
If you could give a single piece of advice to new runners, what would it be?
Start with short distances like 2 to 3 km, then work your way up. Be consistent and invest in proper running shoes.
Be sure to check out our first Run Club Radio Guest Mix by Junior Brown!
Run Club Radio Guest Mix Vol 1 featuring Junior Brown
Follow Lock Stock, Red Star, Chameleon, and of course Junior Brown on Instagram!