Yesterday morning the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon was being broadcast on local news station KFOR as many folks woke for their Sunday morning paper and coffee. The Memorial Marathon has taken a tragic incident that took the lives of 168 people and created a beautiful event that celebrates the lives of those lost and the vibrant, resilient community of Oklahoma City. Seeing on the screen thousands of determined runners and walkers taking part in the what is truly a run to remember, mostly likely inspired many others to participate in the event next year. If you are feeling motivated to run or walk in the Memorial Marathon next year, a running group may be the best way to help you maintain that momentum and help keep you accountable to your goal. There are various running groups that meet up around the state and a few are listed below. It’s never to early to begin training.
Edmond Running Club (Edmond) -The Edmond Running Club (ERC) is a non-profit organization promoting healthy lifestyles, social interaction, structured training, and races. Walkers, joggers, runners and their families are all welcome. ERC post group run information and locations on their Facebook page.
Red Coyote (OKC) – Red Coyote is a running store located in Oklahoma City. They currently are hosting a Newbie Running program that provides a structured introduction for folks new to running.
OK Landrunners (OKC) -Landrunners is a running club located in Oklahoma City. They currently have an 8 week 5K training program for folks just starting to run, Walker to Landrunner. This group meets every Saturday at Lake Hefner East Warf.
OK Runner (Norman) – OK Runner is a speciality running, walking, and lifestyle store located in Norman. OK Runner hosts a morning group run Saturdays at 7:30am. It’s a 10 mile run with two water stops throughout the course. You are welcome to run as long or short as you’d like. Even better, you can join the group after the run for breakfast at Cool Greens just a few doors down from OK Runner’s brick and mortar store.
RunHers (OKC & Norman) – RunHers is a women’s running community that offers running and walking training groups. Groups meet on various days in a few different locations in OKC and Norman.
Fleet Feet (Tulsa) – Fleet Feet is a running store with two locations in Tulsa. Fleet Feet organizes various group training programs that range from fist time 5K to more experienced runners. Check out their training page for more information.