YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – You may have seen them running through Mill Creek MetroPark on Sunday mornings. The Youngstown Road Runners Club has been around for the last 50 years, promoting fitness for life.
“We have people that used to run and now they walk. People that have always just walked or run-walked, and of course, we’ve got some really good runners, too,” said Michelle Hirschl.
Every Sunday, the Youngstown Roadrunners Club meets at Mill Creek Park, rarely canceling a run.
“Rain, shine, snow, sleet — doesn’t matter how hot or cold, we’re out here,” said Hirschl.
Sometimes, the conditions can be brutal, but having a community to be around makes it a little bit easier.
“Once you get into running, it’s just natural to eat better than you used to because you want to [go on the] next run,” said Rich Hart.
“If I had to go out and do it by myself, I would never come out in that weather, but knowing that I’m going to be with a group of people that I really enjoy their company, the friendship and the camaraderie, that’s what gets me out here in the wintertime,” said Hirschl.
That sense of friendship doesn’t just extend within the club but also within the Valley.
Those at the organization volunteer at many local races in the community and provide water stops for runners. The Roadrunners Club also has many partnerships, like with Second Sole, Boardman Subaru and the Covelli Corporation.
“There’s so many people that have just donated money and sent checks that we didn’t even know just because they saw what we were doing — the shoe program — or because we were doing a scholarship. It’s just such a great feeling to be a part of that type of a community,” Hirschl said.
The cost to join is $25 per family and $15 for full-time college students. There are free certified running coaches, so whether it’s a 5K or the Boston Marathon, the organization can help you put any plan together.
You can find more information on the organization’s website.