Run Club Spotlight: Anacostia parkrun

Did you know there is a free 5K race held at five locations in the DMV every Saturday morning? The folks at Brooks host parkrun, a free community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate at Anacostia Park, Roosevelt Island, Fletcher’s Cove, College Park, and Kensington. The Anacostia crew reached out and shared the details about their group and extended and invitation to our readers to come out for a weekend run.

Courtesy of Anacostia parkrun.

When/Where does the group meet?

Saturdays at 9 a.m. in five locations: College Park, Roosevelt Island, Kensington, Anacostia Park, and Fletchers Cove (Anacostia is metro accessible).

The Anacostia parkrun starts across from the turn off from 1901 Anacostia Drive into the U.S. Park Police Facility.

What makes parkrun different from other running groups?

It is a free weekly 5k hosted by Brooks and completely supported via volunteer efforts.

What is the mix of runners and who thrives in your group?

Seasoned, fast runners from other local clubs (MoCo Roadrunners, Boston Marathon runners), runners from other groups, local track club members, casual runners, walkers. All paces and abilities. Strollers and dogs are welcome. Anyone who is comfortable without the structure of a paid race and/or spectators will thrive in this group.

Each group varies, but there are roughly 50+ runners at each parkrun across the city.

Walk us through a typical run.

Runners register online for a barcode in advance which will allow them to get an official time. Once they run, they receive a barcode token and a volunteer scans their both barcodes. Their official time will be emailed to them right after the race. All are welcome regardless of what time they arrive, how long they take, or if they just want to walk with someone.

Frequently have coffee afterward at the Capital One Cafe in Anacostia.

What should first-timers know before showing up?

Register for a barcode on Parkrun for an official time. Anacostia Parkrun is metro accessible (Green line). Parking is in the Park Police lot. The start line is clearly marked with a large banner. We have water and miscellaneous snacks depending on what or who is being celebrated.

How can people find you and get involved?

Visit https://www.parkrun.us/ and find your local parkrun.