Maine Running Company features three year-round training groups — spring, fall and winter — which meet every Thursday night at 6 pm. The biggest is the “Reach The Beacon” spring group, currently in session with more than 160 members.
Want a women’s only group? Coreen Lauren hosts a run/walk training group, every Tuesday night at 6 pm at Maine Running Company. Ziggy Gillispie’s “Run To Win” training group features the longest running training group in the Portland area. It meets every Wednesday night at 6 pm at MRC.
Looking to run the Maine Marathon? Jeannie Hackett’s marathon and half-marathon training group meets every Sunday Morning at 8 am at Peak Performance Multisport. Also, Peak’s Rob Smith hosts track workouts every Wednesday night at 6 pm at Falmouth High School.
Looking for a Saturday morning group? The Maine Track Club’s 7 am “Roaster’s Run” meets in Falmouth at Maine Coffee Roasters — rain, snow or shine. MTC also provides members with two other training group opportunities, an Auburn-Lewiston training group (coached by Bob Brainerd), meets every Tuesday night at 6 pm at Edward Little High School. MTC members can also utilize the Maine Running Company Thursday night training group. Both training groups are free to members.
Looking to do your first triathlon? Dave Pellitier’s 1st Tri personal training program can get you there. Contact him or one of his many certified coaches at www.1sttri.com. Another opportunity is Hannaford’s Tuesday night training runs, beginning Tuesday, July 1, at the Back Cove Hannaford. The group will meet every Tuesday night through the Beach To Beacon, and features training, nutritional and equipment tips.
All these training groups have one thing in common. They’re open for all levels of athletes, beginner to the experienced. No wonder Portland is always rated one of the fittest and healthiest cities in America. So, next time your looking for a training partner, program, support or just an opportunity to get fit or reach a fitness goal, just look around — there are plenty of options. And remember ... run happy!