Those creative folks at Runhouse in Philadelphia are at it again, this time with something they are calling Run Jam — a three-day long running event with a variety of programming designed to get runners out of the pandemic doldrums and back to building community and participating in running. Run Jam is scheduled for November 12-14.

“We created Run Jam because we were itching to get back into putting on running events but knew we couldn't build something traditional,” explains Runhouse’s Ryan Callahan. “Using the mantra ‘Let's not make this a typical virtual event,’ we thought a lot about everything going on the world and the conversations we are having at our office and with our team.

“We also thought about how you create an event where everyone feels connected and is participating together, something most virtual events really lack,” he adds. “We decided we wanted to create an event that was equal parts fun and unique while also bringing together leaders and perspectives that can help the community move into the future with a renewed commitment to making the sport the best it possibly can be.”

A portion of proceeds are being split between supporting training services for low income and underrepresented running communities via City fit Girls as well as to the newly-formed Running Industry Diversity Coalition.

It all starts Thursday, November 12, with a panel on The Future of Running. Hosted by Knox Robinson (@firstrun), panelists include Alison Desir (Hoka/Oiselle), Mary Cain (Tracksmith), Molly Huddle (Saucony), Ted Metellus (NYRR) and Takia McClendon and Kiera Smalls (City Fit Girls). That event will bring together some of the biggest names in the running industry and the sport to talk through how the business can build the next era of running from post-pandemic events to making running inclusive to everyone.

Then on Friday, November 13, Run Jam is hosting Track Night, a sub-elite mile throw down. Runners will hit their local track at staggered times throughout the evening, run a timed mile and stream it online to the Run Jam audience. The fastest runner at the end of the night goes home with $1500 in cash and gear from Saucony, Ciele and Tracksmith.

Run Jam ends on Saturday, November 14, with the Coast to Coast 5K. With a same-time start time around the world, the race begins at 10 a.m. and closes 90 minutes later. Run Jam will have live tracking and, of course, all runners will get a shirt and a small poster for participating.

Runhouse is organizing Run Jam in collaboration with Saucony, who is the official footwear sponsor, as well as Tracksmith and Ciele Athletics. 

For more: gorunjam.com