PRoject Rise – a local running group that prides itself on inclusivity – celebrated its 5-year anniversary last month. The group has but one rule: just show up — and that’s what they do at 5:29 a.m. every Thursday.
The project is the brainchild of veteran runner Dylan Hammons and his long-time friend Jordan Leach. The two simply wanted to create a running environment that welcomed all levels of runners and walkers and introduced newcomers to an encouraging atmosphere.
“I’m just proud of the people that keep showing up every day – that’s the hardest part for anything,” Hammons said. “Having a positive attitude inviting new people, I think that’s what we’ll need to grow and create an even larger culture of inclusion.”
PRoject Rise – craftily titled as such because it takes place at the break of dawn, and PR stands for personal record – began in March of 2017. After 3 years of success and exponential growth, organizers halted the operation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leaders exercised caution and immediately began searching for ways to continue to inspire others on their wellness journeys. They launched virtual workout plans and hosted a virtual 5K in April 2020.
They also sponsored a food drive to aid those in need with the pandemic looming.
As restrictions weakened, the group cautiously began meeting again roughly 1 year later. Hammons said as the masks faded and people began to feel a sense of security while outside, they decided it was time to return to in-person running.
“We were hesitant to begin meeting again for fear that something might go wrong,” Hammons said. “We wanted to respect the city and the runners because everyone has different views.”
The tribe, as they refer to themselves, is back at it, and they welcome anyone to join them on Thursday at 5:29 a.m. at Smothers Park. The effort-based run consists of a 30-minute circuit that keeps everyone close and takes out having to do specific mileage.
“All you need is your effort, nothing more, nothing less,” Hammons said. “You do what you can do for 30 minutes. Some do close to 5 miles, some do 1 mile, but we all finish together. We try to design workouts for runners to be able to encourage each other.”
Hammons said it’s not like other running groups, where runners often fear being dropped or getting lost on the route.
“After the first section, the group just becomes one. It has no front or end,” he said. “It allows you to run your pace. Your easy pace, your recovery pace, your effort pace.”
For more information or to stay up-to-date on all things PRoject Rise, visit them on Facebook here.
