Episode 60 | Terrence Mahon

Mission AC

The Mission Athletics Club (Mission AC) was born out of Terrence Mahon and his wife Jen Rhines' desire to create a unique running environment in San Diego. They chose San Diego for its consistent weather, excellent trails, and proximity to the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista 1. The name "Mission" reflects their broader vision beyond just being an elite club, aiming to resonate with every athlete's personal journey to improvement 2.

We all seem to have a mission in life in terms of trying to get better.

--- Terrence Mahon

The club's openness to various possibilities, including potential collaborations with Adidas, highlights its flexible and inclusive approach.

   

Recruitment

Terrence Mahon employs a meticulous recruitment strategy for Mission AC, focusing on athletes who can financially sustain themselves and have a strong desire to be in San Diego 3. He values athletes with intrinsic motivation and a clear understanding of their goals, ensuring they fit well within the group's dynamics 4.

The innate drive to succeed is something I'm interested in working with.

--- Terrence Mahon

Mahon is upfront about the challenges and expectations, preferring to work with athletes who can handle brutal honesty and have realistic aspirations.

   

Training Groups

Training groups like Mission AC offer significant benefits, but Terrence Mahon acknowledges they aren't suitable for everyone 5. While some athletes thrive in group settings, others, like Ben True, perform better independently. Mahon emphasizes the importance of finding the right environment for each athlete, rather than forcing them into a group 5.

It's a great thing, but not for everybody.

--- Terrence Mahon

Brands often push athletes into groups for marketing and oversight, but Mahon believes in tailoring training to individual needs.