How long have you been running? Back in 2011, I was 235 lbs and knew I had to make a change. I started by cleaning up my diet and focusing on healthier habits, and the weight started coming off. Once I lost the weight, I joined a CrossFit gym to stay active, and after a few months, I gave running a shot. What started as just a way to move turned into something I genuinely love. It’s been a journey, but one step at a time, it changed my life.
Tell us about your run club. City Centre Running Club has been around for 14 years, and back in 2011, it was the only run club I knew. I started going every Monday, and it quickly became a big part of my life. I stayed consistent until 2016, when I had to move further away for work. Over time, I discovered more run clubs and ran with different groups—but none quite matched the vibe of City Centre. The energy, the friendships, the community. it’s what brought me back, and why I still keep showing up.
What is your favorite memory from your run club? One of my favorite moments with City Centre Running Club was the first time I realized I wasn’t just showing up to run. I was showing up for the people. It was one of those random Monday nights, nothing special on the calendar, but the energy was just perfect. We laughed, we pushed each other, and after the run, we hung out like old friends. That’s when it clicked, this wasn’t just a run club, it was a community. And that feeling has stuck with me ever since.
Running doesn’t have to be about speed or distance. It’s about showing up. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been running for years, the most important thing is consistency. Some days will feel amazing, others will be tough, but every run adds up. Find your people, enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to start slow. Progress comes, and so does the joy. Just keep showing up. You never know how far it’ll take you.
