(Psst... This is so 2009. Check out the details for the 2012 lululemon warehouse sales happening in Ottawa and Chicago.) 

There has been months of secret preparation. A total of 210 educators have been hired. And one stellar city has been chosen to surprise and delight our guests: Hamilton Ontario!

Starting tomorrow we are touching down in Hamilton for 4 days between Thursday, July 23th - Sunday, July 26th at the Hamilton Convention Centre for the warehouse sale to end all warehouse sales!

Our team has been in this community for a few weeks checking out yoga studios and fitness centres, hanging out with athletes and yogis, cheering on the Tiger Cats at the home football game, and eating yummy food - all while being welcomed with open arms!

We chose the perfect location in the heart of downtown, received the product drops, have had late night set ups, organized everything, got the sound system set for bumping beats, have deals that will make you think we are calling fouls, and have done this all with smiles on our faces! Yes, we really are this chipper!

Place: Hamilton Convention Centre

Game time:
Thursday, July 23, 2009 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Friday July 24, 2009 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Saturday July 25, 2009 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday July 26, 2009 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

More information:
Facebook: bit.ly/lululemonWHS
Twitter: twitter.com/lululemonWHS
More Pics: flickr.com/

But shhhh ... don't tell too many people otherwise you'll have to fight twice as hard to get your paws on that Shape Jacket you were eyeing!

So, you've signed up for a race. You're stoked, you're gradually starting to train and realize that you need a few extra pieces of gear to properly - and safely - outfit yourself.

Here are some suggestions for you from a budget-minded perspective:

Find a friend

Friends who've been training for races, that is. I cannot stress enough the value of pals, family and teammates already in the know. So many are willing to share their knowledge and help newbies find their way.

Some may even let you borrow and product test their gear before you buy (due to following this step, my new name is "Can I Borrow Your Bike" Clapperton). People in the know - especially coaches, will send you information on the hook-ups to pre- and post- season gear sales.

Clothes

It'll be hard to steer you away from lululemon products for your run, cross-training and swimming. Yes! Select lululemon stores have women's sport bathing suits right now (check out the image of Georgia in our Fastlane Suit) We even have some amazing cycling-appropriate pieces: TriBabe Short and Activa Vest, anyone?

Shoes

Your local running-specific shoe store is your safest bet. Many have sales on once-worn shoes. The most important thing is that they'll evaluate your gait and stride, ensuring the ideal fit for your foot, which is worth the price.

Just remember to replace those suckers every 300-500 miles (3 months to a year, depending on your activity level). If you're still relying on your Nike Air Jordan high-tops, hate to break it to you, it's time for some new kicks.

Bikes

- Cycling shops - check out the low mileage rentals turned sale bikes and last season's close outs. Like the shoe shops, these guys will fit you properly.
- Local Tri Club postings
- Craigslist (but be careful - I almost accidentally bought a stolen one this weekend). Have a cycling enthusiast check out the post or come with you to the test ride. If the seller won't let you take it for a few days, or at least a legitimate test ride, don't trust 'em!
- Helmet is a must!

Gear

- At a race expo, usually held one-two days prior to the event. Deals galore can be had here, just make sure to come with a list of what you NEED, and enjoy the new bar samples along the way!
- At a race - similar to the expo, on a smaller scale, and usually guaranteed to be sport-appropriate
- Xterra frequently has sales on wetsuits
- Again, go with your "real" tri friends to special pre- and post- season sales

Used = good

Don't be ashamed to start used with wetsuits and bikes. Don't buy new and pricey, especially if this is your first race and you aren't sure you love the sport yet (but you will!). Find the money:

- Sell your old beach cruiser
- Give up frozen yogurt for a month (ah- that is hard one)
- Pick up an extra shift/account/client with motivation to fill the wallet for your gear
- Take change from others' couch cushions

Next up - We're all busy; No one is too busy to train. How to fit in workouts in around work, family, and sleep!