Running Nation

Congratulations!  You are part of a running nation, squad, tribe, etc.  As an enthusiast of running, you join a unique herd.  If you want to test it, look up your local running club the next time you are out of town.   Go to www.rrca.org  and you can find our sister clubs in the Road Runners Club of America.  If there isn’t one, search the web for the locals. Many of them have their own traditions, but you will recognize their vibe immediately.  [Trivia – the oldest, continuously operated running club is nearby.  Can you name it?]

Typically, the club lead will introduce you, find your pace pals and give you the route preview.  On the run, you will quickly fall into the typical rhythms.  You will be surprised that they have the same chit chat we do. Someone is out for a few weeks because of this/that… Another is getting married... Are you running the whatever race in a few weeks… Some local legend ran so fast or so far recently.  Welcome aboard.

Two of my favorites 

City running Tours:  www.cityrunningtours.com In larger cities, there are running tours that take you through the local highlights on the fly.  They are great.  In 3-8 miles, you can see most cities.  The better tour guides have day jobs driving tours around, so they know their stuff.  There are other brands you can find on tripadvisor or yelp.  My favorite is San Francisco.

Gainesville is home to the Florida Track Club.  Olympic gold medalist Frank Shorter and Jeff Galloway have been members along with several hundred current members. They host about ten runs per week and range from track to trails and tromp the stadium steps.  I have joined them about a dozen times as my kids have attended UF over the years.  Below are a couple highlights of my run with them this past weekend.

Craig