As we celebrate 15 years of MitoCanada, we’re sharing the stories of those who make this community so special. Today, we’re sharing the story of Richelle Love and Rose Serpico from Calgary, Alberta.
Richelle and Rose are the powerhouse duo behind Tri-It Multisport, Canada’s most comprehensive triathlon store, and RnR Premier Events, a leading race and event company known for organizing epic running and multisport events, plant-based races, and next-level experiences that bring people together. They’ve been nationwide leaders in the triathlon, health, and wellness community for nearly two decades, and their connection to MitoCanada runs deep.
For Richelle, it was Rose who first opened the door. “It’s really Rose who got me involved with MitoCanada and her vision to start the spinathon, and then a few years later turn it into the MitoCanada Spinathon,” she shares. “Rose and Blaine Penny (MitoCanada’s co-founder) have a very close relationship and she really turned this into something incredible!”
Richelle immediately felt connected to the cause. “Having known the Penny family, I jumped at the opportunity,” she says. “It felt incredibly important to support families like the Pennys and to help make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by mitochondrial disease. That connection and purpose are what drew me in, and what continues to inspire me today.”
Over the years, Richelle has supported MitoCanada in countless ways: delivering the MitoCanada Spinathon as an organizer, coach, and volunteer, running an ultra-marathon to raise funds and awareness, volunteering at several other MitoCanada events, and championing the cause through Tri-It Multisport, as the company has proudly contributed through sponsorship, community engagement, and ongoing event support. “Together, we’ve been able to help amplify MitoCanada’s mission and bring people together in a powerful way,” she says. “Being part of MitoCanada means being part of something bigger: empowering people to move their bodies, share their stories, and create meaningful change. Seeing participants knowing they’re making a difference and hearing families express what that support means to them is incredibly inspiring. It’s those moments that are full of connection and purpose that make putting on this event truly rewarding.”
For Richelle, the MitoCommunity is at the heart of it all. “This is truly one of the most inspiring and uplifting communities I’ve ever been part of,” she says. “The moment you get involved, you’re welcomed with open arms. You’re not just supporting a cause, you become part of the MitoFamily.”
For Rose, the connection began with purpose. “When we opened our retail store and launched our event business almost 20 years ago, we knew that giving back mattered just as much as business growth. We wanted to create impact locally and nationally,” she says.
Meeting Blaine Penny changed everything. “It was immediately clear that he shared the same purpose-driven vision,” says Rose. “Once we saw how dedicated and passionate the small group behind MitoCanada was, and how tirelessly they were working to build momentum and raise awareness, we knew we wanted to be part of that journey. It felt like the right place to put our energy, and it has truly been amazing.”
Over the last 15 years, Rose and Richelle have supported MitoCanada through fundraising events, volunteer work, and countless hours poured into the MitoCanada Spinathon and other initiatives. “Any time we organized a fundraising event, we set a goal, and if we fell short, we personally contributed to ensure we reached it,” Rose says. “We’ve always operated as volunteers, and 100% of the proceeds have gone directly back to MitoCanada.”
For Rose, the most rewarding part has been the people. “As a mother and grandmother, I’m continually humbled by the strength, love, and resilience of the families affected by mitochondrial disease,” she says. “They show up even in the hardest moments and continue to give back, support one another, and raise awareness. Their courage and heart are inspiring, and being part of this community has given me far more than I could ever give in return.”
Rose’s message to the MitoCommunity is simple and powerful: “Thank you for leading with strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment,” she says. “You continue to show up, share your stories, build connections, and support one another. That effort creates real, lasting change. We are committed to continuing this work alongside you — helping raise awareness, share your message, and support the ongoing research and advocacy needed.”
We’re grateful to Richelle and Rose for inspiring our MitoCommunity through their passion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to MitoCanada.
Join us in fuelling the next 15 years. Every donation helps us continue this vital work and create a future where no one faces mito alone.
