After more than a decade representing Canada on the world stage, a Calgary athlete is now tackling a much different challenge.
Two-time Olympian Jessica Zelinka will now be a coach at a new “Ninja Warrior” facility in the city’s northeast.
“It’s a really awesome environment,” Zelinka said. “Challenging people to go outside their comfort zone is really rewarding.”
Zelinka competed in heptathlon at the Summer Games in Beijing 2008 and in London in 2012, taking part in events like hurdles, high jump and shot put.
She’ll be coaching adults and kids at the “InjaNation” obstacle course, where manager Mike West feels she’ll be a key part of the team.
“It’s great to be working with somebody who’s excelled on the world stage,” West said. “Maybe she’ll inspire somebody to be a future Ninja Warrior or a future Olympian.”
Zelinka is looking forward to her new role.
“It’s just about play, especially with children. It’s not about learning skills. It’s about figuring out how to get your body over something.”
InjaNation opens to the public on Saturday, Oct. 29.