Brit Townsend began coaching at SFU over 20 years ago.  A two-time Olympian as an athlete in the 800m, Townsend is an international medalist and has held seven Canadian records.

A level 4 international coach, Townsend has coached both national and provincial teams, and has coached athletes to the Pan-Am Games, World Student Games, World Championships and Olympic Games. At Simon Fraser, Townsend has won the National Coach of the Year award seven times, while SFU has won the most individual and team titles in NAIA history.

In 2012, Jessica Smith, who had recently wrapped up her Clan career and who was still coached by Townsend, competed in the London Olympics, reaching the semi final in the 800m competition.

In 2013, Townsend coached Helen Crofts to two NCAA titles as Crofts won both the 800-metre championships in the indoor and outdoor events to close out her Clan career.