Running Challenge Clubs
Once distance runners have a few half marathons or marathons under their feet, some start to look for a bigger goal. Some runners strive to run races in many states, or to complete races within a relatively short period of time. Here is info on a couple of clubs that are helpful for building camaraderie among runners with common goals. They also offer other benefits to their club members.
50 States Half Marathon Club — This club offers a variety of challenges for runners but is primarily centered around half marathons. If you like to mix half marathons up with full marathons, trail runs, half Ironman triathlons or full Ironman triathlons, there is a challenge for you.
Members have goals such as completing a half marathon or endurance run in each of the 50 US states, completing 100 half marathons (or more) anywhere, completing an endurance run on all seven continents, completing a half marathon in each of Canada’s 10 provinces, and more.
Membership Dues: annual with lifetime membership available
Perks and benefits:
- Discounts on some race entries and running merchandise,
- Virtual network of runners for advice and support
- Meetups and photo opps of members at races
- Opportunities for sharing travel and lodging expenses
- Annual party including awards, prizes, banquet,
- Opportunity to order club member merchandise
- Developing lifelong friendships
Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics — To join Marathon Maniacs you must do something crazy like running three full marathons in 90 days. Half Marathon Fanatics requires that you run three half marathons in 90 days to join. Once you are a member, challenges include completing various numbers of races in a given period of time.
Membership Dues: annual
Perks and benefits:
- Race recommendations
- Virtual network of runners for advice and support
- Meetups and photo opps of members at races
- Opportunities for sharing travel and lodging expenses
- Annual parties
- Opportunity to order club member merchandise
- Developing lifelong friendships
If you are looking for a new challenge and want to combine running and traveling or get connected with runners from all over, check these clubs out.
Happy Running!