Are you a running enthusiast looking for a vibrant and supportive community to join? Look no further than Colorado Springs, where the stunning natural landscapes and scenic trails have attracted runners of all abilities. With a variety of running clubs catering to different interests and skill levels, there is something for everyone in this city. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top running clubs in Colorado Springs, their unique offerings, meeting points, and how to get involved.
Colorado Springs Running Club (CSRC)
As the oldest and largest running club in the city, Colorado Springs Running Club (CSRC) has been fostering a thriving community of runners for over 40 years. With a membership of over 700, CSRC welcomes runners of all paces and experience levels. The club offers a variety of programs, including weekly group runs, track workouts, and social events.
Meeting Point
The meeting point for CSRC is Dale’s Diner, located at 5002 E Platte Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80909. This iconic diner serves up delicious breakfast and lunch options, making it the perfect spot for runners to refuel after a morning run.
Programs and Events
CSRC offers a range of programs and events to cater to the diverse interests of its members. Some of the popular programs include:
- Weekly Group Runs: These runs take place every Saturday morning and are open to all members. The routes vary each week, showcasing the beautiful trails and parks in Colorado Springs.
- Track Workouts: For those looking to improve their speed and endurance, CSRC offers weekly track workouts led by experienced coaches.
- Social Events: CSRC also hosts regular social events, such as happy hours, potlucks, and holiday parties, to foster a sense of community among its members.
In addition to these programs, CSRC also organizes group runs for local races and participates in various charity events throughout the year.
Membership Benefits
Becoming a member of CSRC comes with many benefits, including:
- Discounts: Members receive discounts at local running stores and race registrations.
- Training Plans: CSRC offers personalized training plans for members preparing for specific races or goals.
- Community Support: Joining CSRC means becoming part of a supportive community of runners who share a passion for the sport.
Running Wild
For those seeking a more structured and competitive experience, Running Wild is a premiere running club dedicated to helping athletes achieve their personal best. The club offers tailored training plans, expert coaching, and a supportive team environment. Members participate in races of all distances, from 5Ks to marathons.
Meeting Point
The meeting point for Running Wild is the Fort Carson PX, located at 6615 7th Ave, Fort Carson, CO 80913. This location provides easy access to the trails and parks in the area, making it an ideal spot for group runs.
Programs and Events
Running Wild offers a variety of programs and events to help its members reach their running goals. These include:
- Training Plans: Members have access to personalized training plans designed by experienced coaches to help them achieve their specific goals.
- Weekly Group Runs: Running Wild hosts weekly group runs on Saturdays and Sundays, with routes ranging from 3 to 20 miles.
- Race Participation: The club participates in local races as a team, providing support and motivation for its members.
In addition to these programs, Running Wild also offers workshops and clinics on topics such as nutrition, injury prevention, and race strategy.
Membership Benefits
Joining Running Wild comes with several benefits, including:
- Expert Coaching: Members have access to experienced coaches who provide personalized training plans and guidance.
- Team Support: Running Wild fosters a supportive team environment, where members can train and race together.
- Race Discounts: Members receive discounts on race registrations for select races.
Pikes Peak Road Runners (PPRR)
If trail running is your passion, look no further than Pikes Peak Road Runners (PPRR). This club is dedicated to promoting trail running in Colorado Springs and offers a variety of programs and events for its members.
Meeting Point
The meeting point for PPRR is the Bear Creek Regional Park, located at 21st St & W Rio Grande St, Colorado Springs, CO 80906. This park has a network of trails that cater to all levels of trail runners.
Programs and Events
PPRR offers a range of programs and events to cater to the diverse interests of its members. These include:
- Trail Runs: The club hosts weekly trail runs on Saturdays, with routes ranging from 3 to 10 miles.
- Training Runs: PPRR also offers training runs for specific races, such as the Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon.
- Social Events: The club organizes social events throughout the year, including potlucks, movie nights, and holiday parties.
In addition to these programs, PPRR also participates in various trail races and organizes volunteer opportunities for its members to give back to the community.
Membership Benefits
Becoming a member of PPRR comes with many benefits, including:
- Access to Trails: Members have access to a network of trails in Bear Creek Regional Park, perfect for trail running.
- Race Discounts: PPRR offers discounts on select trail races for its members.
- Community Involvement: Joining PPRR means becoming part of a community of trail runners who are passionate about preserving and promoting trail running in Colorado Springs.
Conclusion
Colorado Springs is a haven for running enthusiasts, with its stunning natural landscapes, scenic trails, and vibrant community. Whether you are looking for a casual running group or a more competitive experience, there is a running club in this city that will cater to your needs. So lace up your running shoes and join one of these clubs to become part of a supportive and inspiring community of runners in Colorado Springs.
