Run Club Spotlight: Rock Creek Run Club

This week we are turning the Run Club Spotlight on one of the new kids on the block. Rock Creek Run Club started their group runs in April, meeting before work on Thursdays to get in easy miles through Rock Creek Park. Check them out!

When/Where does the group meet?

We meet at Picnic Grove #1 in Rock Creek Park by the Western Trail on Thursday mornings at 6:30AM.

What makes Rock Creek Run Club different from other running groups?

RCRC is different in the types of runs we offer and consistency! We offer structured, weekly road runs (Thursdays at 6:30AM), occasional post-work runs, and trail runs.

Our trail runs are intentionally approachable, with no prior trail running experience required. The goal is to create a space where people can try trail running, but also be mindful of where they're running. We prioritize respect for the park over performance, and aim to leave the trail as we found it (or better!). There will be some park cleanups in the future!

How would you describe the personality and vibe of the group?

We are laid back, supportive, and chatty! It's a mix of road-runner structure and trail-runner spontaneity. People genuinely celebrate each other for running their first race or hitting a new distance and everyone is quick to share tips and encouragement. There's also a sense of optimism that comes with being a new club, where everyone feels like they're helping shape what it becomes.

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

Our Strava group has about 75 people with 8-15 people showing up each run. We are about a month old, so we are just getting started!

Our road runs are typically around a 10:00-11:00 mile pace so that everyone can chat and relax. The trail runs we keep up a steady pace and are most certainly open to walking up particularly steep hills. Our experience levels vary greatly! There are runners who have recently ran their first race and runners who have ran 100 milers.

Beginners, ultrarunners, anyone who wants to make new friends and enjoy Rock Creek Park will fit in and thrive.

Walk us through a typical run.

Everyone usually shows up a couple minutes before we start and we take a moment to introduce ourselves so no one feels like a stranger. I will remind everyone of our 10:30-ish pace, and that we will adjust based on what is comfortable for the group. Then, I will remind everyone to get their watches ready, because no one wants to end a run at 3.98 miles, and we head off on our out and back route!

During our run, we keep things pretty relaxed. Sometimes there are lots of conversations going on at once, or sometimes we have one big group discussion about upcoming races - sharing tips and discussing our training. We run together, as we have typically been small enough to run without blocking the roads.

When we finish, we catch our breath and take a quick group photo for our Instagram (totally optional if you are camera shy) and say goodbye! Some runners continue on with a longer run, others walk together back to their apartments.

I am planning some post-work runs that will be followed by a happy hour!

What should first-timers know before showing up to your run club?

I would recommend joining our Strava group and RSVPing to the run you plan to attend so I know to expect you and you can review the route ahead of time. Arrive a few minutes early, as we like to leave on time so no one is running late for work.

If you are nervous about keeping up with our group, don't be! Our road route is an out-and-back, so you won't get lost. All paces are welcome! You can always DM on Instagram with any questions or concerns you have.

For trail runs, a pair of trail runners is recommended but not required. Because of the elevation, it would help to have some base level of running fitness, but you don't need to be advanced.

I would recommend bringing some water on warmer days in a hydration pack (keep your hands free). Dress for the weather, wear SPF and bug spray as needed, and I will have a first aid kit in my pack for any falls.

Share a memorable moment, tradition, or story that captures what your group is all about.

We got lost on our first trail run, which felt on brand for a new trail run club. It was an overcast Monday morning and starting to rain. Instead of panicking, we just went with it! We rerouted, laughed, and kept moving.

It was a pretty perfect start to the day and a good reflection of the culture I want to build: adaptable and low-pressure. It is also the reason why I now generously estimate the mileage of trail runs rather than give an exact distance.

How can people find RCRC and get involved?

Follow us on Instagram and Strava.

Want to have your run club highlighted in the newsletter? Submit your group here.