Ariana Wright
Aug 4, 2024
Sneaker Theory sent a track & field athlete to check out a run club that stages public workouts in the nation's capital. Here's why her first visit won't be her last.
Washington, D.C. – As a D1 athlete, I'm used to intense training sessions, but most of my summer workouts are solo. So when I heard about DC Run Crew, I was eager to join in and experience running with a group.
It didn’t take long to see that my decision paid off.
The moment I arrived at Union Market – the departure point for our run – I felt a warm, welcoming energy. It was amazing to meet runners from different backgrounds, each with their own reasons for being there. Some wanted accountability. Some wanted camaraderie. Some wanted a little bit of both.
The story that resonated with me the most was from someone who started running with the group after their pro career. They needed a community after competing, and the crew helped them rediscover their identity. It pushed them to keep working out and maintain the progress they'd worked so hard for over the years.
The diversity of the runners shattered my preconceived notions about running clubs, which I had always associated with a more homogeneous crowd.
The route
For the five-mile run, I chose to wear a pair of black and gray Charged Breeze 2 running shoes by Under Armour. As the run began, I found my pack and we took off, hitting our stride.
The route had a mix of terrains. We started with a slight uphill for the first 2.5 miles, and then enjoyed a downhill return for the remaining 2.5 miles. For the first half mile, we ran on the sidewalk, but for the rest of the route, we were on a sidewalk trail. At around two miles, we were back on the sidewalk before turning around and heading back on the trail.
We pushed each other, cheering and motivating along the way. Designated crew members for different groups carried mini speakers to play music as we ran. The music was on point, setting a perfect vibe that made the experience even more enjoyable.
Solo runners we passed often smiled or gave a thumbs up, which is a part of runner etiquette. People walking dogs or just strolling didn’t always reciprocate my smiles or waves, but those on e-scooters or bikes generally smiled back.
Helping each other out
What stood out to me the most was the accountability and support within the group. If someone was struggling but still making an effort — like grunting or slowing down — we would typically encourage them to keep pushing and let them know how much distance was left.
It was inspiring to see how everyone looked out for each other, making sure no one was left behind.
DC Run Crew isn't just a running club – it's a community. The experience – the collective energy – was incredible. It's a special feeling to connect with others who share similar cultural experiences, and that's something I particularly appreciated about DC Run Crew.
I definitely plan to run more with this crew. The accountability is exactly what not only I needed, but others did, too, to stay motivated and connected. Plus, it's a great way to explore the city and meet new people who share a passion for running!
Ariana Wright is a member of the women’s track & field team at the University of Maryland, College Park, where she is majoring in digital and media communications. She is set to graduate in 2025.
Editor's note: This story is one of a series of articles about DC Run Crew being commissioned by Jamaal Abdul-Alim in his capacity as a 2024-2025 fellow for New America's Us@250 Initiative. The fellowship focuses on themes of pride, reckoning and aspiration.
Editor's note ii: The above story references a running shoe made by Under Armour. Under Armour provides training and game-day footwear for student-athletes at the University of Maryland through a contract that is set to last through 2036.