Train With Purpose: Your Guide to the Triathlon of Compassion

The Triathlon of Compassion (TOC) is Victoria’s community-driven triathlon and a major annual fundraiser for the Victoria Sexual Assault Centre (VSAC). Taking place on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre, the TOC brings together athletes of all ages to swim, bike, and run — all while supporting survivors in our community.

Training for this race is about more than crossing the finish line. Every stroke, pedal, and stride is an opportunity to challenge yourself and make a meaningful impact. Participation helps raise funds for counselling, crisis support, and prevention education, with this year’s goal set at $30,000.

Winter Training Tips to Keep You Motivated

Training in the off-season can be tough — darker days, colder weather, and life’s demands can sap motivation. But winter is the perfect time to build a strong foundation for race season.

1. Swim: Focus on Technique

Indoor pool sessions are your chance to refine form, improve breathing, and swim more efficiently. Drills now mean smoother, less exhausting swims on race day.

2. Bike: Make the Trainer Work for You

Indoor cycling doesn’t have to be boring. Structured workouts, virtual rides, and power intervals keep training fun and effective, even when the weather is cold or wet.

3. Run: Balance Indoor and Outdoor Sessions

Treadmills allow controlled pacing, while outdoor runs maintain real-world feel. Dress in layers, stay visible, and enjoy the fresh air for both your body and mind.

4. Strength: Build Resilience

Core stability, balance, and mobility reduce injury risk and improve performance across all three triathlon disciplines. A stronger body is a more confident, capable body.

5. Mindset: Focus on Consistency

Set realistic goals, track your progress, and celebrate small victories. Each workout is a step toward race readiness — and toward supporting a vital cause.

Training With Purpose

Every kilometer you swim, pedal, or run carries meaning beyond personal achievement. You’re contributing to a community that supports survivors of sexualized violence. You’re showing them they are seen, supported, and not alone.

“The Triathlon of Compassion shows survivors that our community stands with them. Every participant is part of that message of support and hope.”— Victoria Sexual Assault Centre

When your training has purpose, every early morning and every tough workout transforms into something bigger: hope, healing, and empowerment.

Turn Your Training Into Impact

Participation alone makes a difference, but fundraising amplifies it. Every dollar raised goes directly to VSAC programs that change lives. Setting up a personal fundraising page is easy and every contribution — big or small — helps survivors access counselling, crisis support, and prevention education.

Start your fundraiser HERE.

Be Part of the Movement

The Triathlon of Compassion is more than a race — it’s a community tradition that celebrates determination, compassion, and solidarity.

Train with intention.

Race with heart.

Move for something that truly matters.

Whether you participate, cheer, or fundraise, your commitment fuels hope and healing for survivors in our community. Every step matters. Every effort counts. Every person makes a difference.