The Run Club has become a popular option for students seeking an active lifestyle and opportunities to connect with others. Formed in the spring of 2024, the club has offered a way for students to stay fit, relieve stress and enjoy friendly competition.

Led by President Emily Martinez and Vice President Adam Pierce, as well as their faculty advisors Danielle Swanson and Meredith Bruno, the club is open to runners of all levels.

“They bond, root for one another and they’re very supportive,” Swanson said. “With both successes and hard struggles, they’ll go back out there and cheer for their teammates.”

The team is preparing for the “Leprechaun-a-thon” race this month and a half marathon later this year.

The club includes a mix of experienced runners and newcomers looking to improve. As VP, Pierce organizes the training sessions and practices making sure everybody keeps improving. Pierce is an avid cross-country and track veteran.

“The main thing is the practices and the races, so then I can improve,” Pierce said. His commitment is displayed in his personal records, including a 5K time of 18:15.

However, the club isn’t only focused on running; it also prioritizes its members’ mental and physical well-being.

“Running has a lot of benefits against stress, depression and dealing with mental health,” Martinez said. According to Psychiatry.org, a 2023 study found that running therapy and antidepressant medication had similar effectiveness in treating depression symptoms.

The club encourages members to find success both on and off the racecourse.

The Run Club has already competed in several races and has achieved much success in its first year. After the team earned its first trophy in the Cave Springs 5K, President Emily Martinez described the achievement as one of her most memorable moments.

Despite its competitive edge, the club remains inclusive and a diverse staple of the athletic community. “You don’t even have to be a runner,” Martinez said. “You can just walk. It’s about staying active.”

With plans to transition into an official cross-country team in August 2026, the club is focused on expanding its team. For students interested in joining, the Run Club meets regularly and welcomes members of all skill levels. Whether you are training for a race or just looking for a way to stay active, the Run Club at GHC provides an opportunity to do so.