Philadelphia Running Clubs: West Philly Runners
The running community of West Philly was unified through the creation of this club less than three years ago.
The West Philly Runners were founded in November, 2010 to bring together the community of runners in West Philadelphia and to explore the city. The club began with two friends who enjoyed running, the club has since grown to more than 25 weekly runners. The group credit their inspiration to David April, co-founder of the Fishtown Beer Runners, another local running club.
The West Philly Runners meet every Wednesday at 6:30p.m. in "rain, shine, or thundersnow." The group runs start at 45th and Locust and each week there is a new 2-, 4- and 6-mile route through West Philadelphia. All routes begin and end at the same location, so that seasoned runners and beginners can run alongside each other. At the end of the runs, the group visits a local West Philly Bar or a member's home to "refuel" with post-run beers.
Members of the West Philly Runners participate in a variety of seasonal races, keeping them in shape year round. The runners also meet in smaller groups for speed workouts on Mondays and long distance trails on Saturdays. If interested in joining the West Philly Runners, simply show up at 6:30pm at 45th and Locust any Wednesday wearing running shoes.
On May 18, 2013 the West Philly Runners will host the 2nd annual "WPR 26x1mile Relay Challenge." Essentially, the race consists of teams of around 26 people, that race around West Fairmount Park for the fastest collective marathon time. Each team must create their own baton, and a torch that the final runner or chosen "champion" of the event must carry. If you are interested in registering for this event, click here.
If interested in more information visit their website, www.WestPhillyRunners.com or check out their Facebook page.
Contact information: Alon Abramson alon.abramson@gmail.com
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