Are you looking for a casual running partner? By joining SHU’s new Run Club, you could gain 21 of them. Starting out as three girls who liked to run together, the Run Club has now expanded to 21 members.
“I’ve always loved running, but never had someone to run with. My friend asked me to join her, and we ended up loving it,” said junior Brayden Santagata. “I have made so many friends through Run Club, and we all have each other’s backs.”
Source: Instagram, @shu.run.club
Practices are held three times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:15 p.m. Whether you are a pro or just a beginner, Run Club is open to anyone who attends Sacred Heart.
“We meet outside of the Bobby Valentine Gym, and we run around campus or by Jefferson Street. We do a quick warm-up and then enjoy a low-pressure run, just for fun,” said sophomore captain Bella Paul.
For many students here on campus, running is an outlet for stress and anxiety, as well as a great way to stay active and outdoors. For others, it is a welcoming community where they can meet other students with a shared passion. Whatever the reason, Run Club is an expanding resource open to students of all backgrounds.
“We do a lot of getting to know you questions and icebreakers while we run to make it feel like more of a community,” said sophomore captain Sydney Carlson. “It makes running a lot safer because we can go off-campus as a group and feel safe that we are not on our own, so I think that is a big thing for most members.”
On Oct. 25, 12 members of Run Club participated in the Chasing the Legend: Easton’s Lady in White 5k. Freshman Marcus Haynia earned first place.
“My favorite memory has been running the 5k. It was so awesome to be able to run together and push each other to the finish,” said senior Lillian Wiechert.
The 5k was open to kids and families and offered on-site fall activities, as well as an optional costume contest. The race route circled North Park Avenue in Easton, with fall foliage on full display.
“They provided rides for everyone. We all wore Cars-themed t-shirts and ended up winning the costume contest,” said Santagata.
Taking home first place and best costume, Run Club is hoping to catch the attention of more students looking to join their community.
“If you are looking to bond with other non-competitive runners and get a good laugh while staying active, Run Club is definitely for you,” said Paul.
With a larger member count, the events and opportunities available to Run Club also increase. Current members hope to be invited to even more events in the coming years, as student involvement grows.
“People should join Run Club to stay motivated, make new friends, and improve their fitness in a supportive, fun environment. It’s a great way to set goals, challenge yourself and celebrate progress with great people,” said Wiechert.
To learn more about Run Club or express your interest, you can reach out to either pauli@mail.sacredheart.edu or carlsons3@mail.sacredheart.edu or follow @shu.run.club on Instagram.
“I hope Run Club continues to grow into a welcoming community where runners of all levels feel encouraged and supported. I also hope it inspires more people to discover the joy and confidence that come from running together,” said Wiechert.
