Alphie Smith
A dedicated group of men and women, the Quail Creek Runners, have been gathering for the last six months at Madera clubhouse each Saturday and Sunday for a run, or walk, in and around Quail Creek. The meeting time varies from 6:30 to 8 a.m., depending on the season. Currently, we are gathering at 6:30 a.m. for the summer months.
Individuals run at different paces, so, afterwards, everyone gathers on the patio by the Coffee Bar to refresh and converse. “I want resident runners and walkers to meet each other, to socialize, and to form new friendships,” says Stuart Lisk who first invited all resident runners to a meeting at the Kino Center six months ago.
Since February, the QC Runners have participated in Tucson races as a team and individually. But no one needs to race to be a part of the group.
Besides the social aspects of running and walking, the group intends to provide some educational programs. Guest speakers will talk on topics such as the health benefits of running/walking, how to train if you are older than 55, and how to incorporate running into your daily life.
The QC Runners would also like to give back and support our local youth—those who are on cross-country and track teams—by sponsoring a fundraiser for them in the future.
An additional run/walk on a weekday morning is in the works. New places to gather and venues to run outside of Quail Creek are also being considered.
To make this all happen, walkers and runners are invited to attend the QC Runners monthly meetings in the Ocotillo Room at the Kino Center on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Whether you are a seasoned runner or new to running or want to find new friends to walk with, please attend a future meeting.
The QC Runners are listed on the GroupWorks platform (www.groupworks.com) where you can request to join the group (no fee) and find out what is being posted weekly.
Join the group and make new friends, exercise, socialize, and have fun! All residents are encouraged to be a part of the QC Runners by those who are already enjoying its benefits.
Come walk and/or run with us!