Stepping Into the Future
What started as a small group of dedicated runners who chose to uphold the tradition and legacy of the University of Calgary’s Marathon Training Program has grown into a dedicated group of runners with a vision that has transformed into Calgary’s most welcoming and inclusive running community!
All skill levels and distances belongs here. Since 1982, we’ve proudly championed our core belief that everyone is welcome. No matter whether you are a beginner, a walker, a runner, a triathlete, an ironman or a seasoned runner, we are here to support your dreams.
Celebrating You: We celebrate runners, joggers, and walkers (from 18 years old and up) and all abilities! We celebrate every single start and finish line.
Much More Than Just Running: We’re all about fostering connections, providing unwavering support, and joyfully celebrating every step of your journey together.
Our Races
5K
A 5k is an exciting and accessible running distance.
- These races attract enthusiastic participants, ranging from beginners to seasoned pros, making them a vibrant part of the running community!
- Many 5k events are stand alone, while others are featured in larger celebrations like half marathons, marathons, or triathlons.
- You’II often find charity runs offering 5 or 10 kilometers, perfect for supporting a good cause while getting active.
- For those just starting their running journey, a 5k is a fantastic goal-achievable with the right training an dedication! lt’s a wonderful way to embrace fitness, meet new friends, and celebrate personal achievements!
10K
The 10K is a fantastic running distance enjoyed by many, regardless of skill level! lt strikes a wonderful balance by offering a bit more challenge than a 5K while remaining approachable for beginners. This makes it a perfect entry point for those new to the sport.
For experienced runners, a 10K serves as both a valuable stepping stone to longer races and an exciting goal to focus on, allowing them to work on improving their speed and overall performance. lsn’t it inspiring how adaptable this distance can be?
HALF
0ur team proudly embraces the name inspired by the incredible and delightful distance. 0n Road or Trail races, internationally, Ganada wide or locally, we love running Half-Marathons, and this is why:
- Schedule-friendly: Training for a half-marathon can be accommodated within the schedule of a busy individual.
- Still a demanding distance: lt’s a challenging race requiring preparation.
- Ideal for seasoned runners who still enjoy running and endurance events but may not wish to complete 42.1 KM.
- More family-friendly in terms of time commitment.
- You will receive an amazing finisher’s medal.
- Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or prefer just to complete the distance, you’II finish in just a few hours, recover quickly, and be ready to enjoy a night out dancing.
- Completing the race provides a tremendous sense of achievement.
MARATHON
- From the prestigious ”7 Star” Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM): Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York City Marathons.
- Run 21 proudly participates in major races across Canada’s most breathtaking cities, including Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Quebec, Victoria, Edmonton, Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Regina, Manitoba, Halifax and PEI.
- We join the excitement of incredible international marathons in locations such as Lisbon, París, Honolulu, and many more across the USA, lreland and Australia.
Try Us. The first run is on us.
Do you want to experience the energy and sense of community?
Join the fun:
Come join us on one of our Saturday runs.
Let’s connect and start a thrilling adventure, create unforgettable memories, and promote health and friendship!
We can’t wait to welcome you to our vibrant community.
Our Core Values
What makes RUN21 special? It’s our commitment to these principles.
Running is our true passion!
Running ignites a profound sense of joy within us!
Community
Support: We are dedicated to creating mutual…
Commitment and Participation
Dedication: We appreciate the commitment…
Health and Well-Being
We promote an active lifestyle as vital…
Giving Back
We are devoted to contributing…
Board of Directors
Meet the dedicated volunteers who guide RUN21 Calgary.
Michael Campbell
President
MT Acosta
Vice President
Linda Aldridge
Secretary
James Keeling
Registrar & Memberships
Stephen Ursulescu
Member at Large
Pearl Herscovitch
Member at Large
Fraser Cutten
Treasurer
Ryan Kokott
Member at Large
Janet Hutchinson
Past President
Colleen Parson
Training Program & Coach
Paid Forward: Charities We Support
Running for a cause bigger than ourselves. Our community gives back through every step.
Calgary Food Bank
Annual food drive and fundraising runs to support families in need throughout Calgary.
Health Organizations
Special charity runs and events to support pediatric care and research in our community.
Mental Health Organizations
Supporting mental wellness through running therapy programs and awareness campaigns.
Youth Running Programs
Sponsoring local youth athletics and providing scholarships for running programs.
Environmental Causes
Trail cleanup events and supporting organizations that protect our running environments.
Community Outreach
Partnering with local organizations to make running accessible to all community members.
How We Give Back
RUN21 Calgary is actively involved in charity runs, fundraising events, and volunteer opportunities. Our members support local charities through these initiatives.
Raised for Charity
Charity Events Annually
Volunteer Hours
Our Mission
“To create an inclusive, supportive community where every runner — regardless of pace, experience, or goals — can discover the joy of running while achieving their personal best. Our goal is simple: to get YOU to the finish line.”
What We Believe
- Every runner has potential, regardless of starting point.
- Community support accelerates individual achievement.
- Celebration and fun are essential to the journey.
- Proven methods combined with personal attention work.
How We Support You
- Structured training programs for all distances.
- Pace groups to match your comfort level.
- Experienced coaches and mentors.
- Regular social events and celebrations.
Our Impact
Numbers that show our commitment to the Calgary running community.
40+
Years of Excellence
1000+
Runners Trained
52
Runs Per Year
3
Program Distances