Looking for something different to do intown on a chilly Tuesday night? Some residents of Lake Claire and Candler Park have a suggestion that’s both social and healthy. A recently-formed community running club brings together enthusiasts of varying abilities for safe, group outings on neighborhood streets that are often concluded with a convivial gathering at a local eatery.
The idea is the brainchild of Anna Kilinski, a real estate agent with the firm of Keller Williams Intown who recently moved to Candler Park from Cabbagetown, another intown community that has an active running club.
“When I came here a year ago, I couldn’t believe Candler Park and Lake Claire didn’t have something like that,” said Kilinski. “I started asking around to see if there was any interest, and I put the word on Facebook and in newsletters that I wanted to start one.”
Part of Kilinski’s motivation is self-centered, she admits.
“I love to run, and I need to do it as an outlet because I work too much,” she said. “I also know that if it’s on my schedule, it will hold me accountable to do it.”
The first group outing came together about two months ago, and since then, a small cadre of regular runners has shown up. Some meetings have drawn as many as 20 participants, both from the two adjacent communities and beyond. At 7 p.m., runners in well-soled shoes and running gear start gathering at the Candler Market where Kilinski sketches out the routes for the night. She tries to vary the length and difficulty, while ensuring that everyone finishes the course.
“Right now, we usually do 3- and 4-mile loops through the neighborhoods, maybe even into Inman Park,” she said. “I’d like to have a fast-paced and slower-paced group to run three or five routes, if possible, so we can encourage all types of runners to come. Three miles can be quite far for some, so I try to make sure everyone is comfortable.”
Candle Park newcomer Mallory Colliflower and her boyfriend Jesse Ziglar found the group online and joined to meet more of the neighbors.
“We’re not professional runners by any means,” said Colliflower with a laugh. “But everyone is very welcoming. They encourage all skill levels to come out. And this is a small commitment - it’s only 30 minutes a week, once a week.”
Brian Dechant, who has lived in Lake Claire for 12 years, saw signs around the neighborhood for the new group and decided to give it a try.
“It’s kind of fun,” he said. “For the last few years, I’ve been running by myself, so it’s nice to get together with people you have something in common with. And I have the chance to know some of the neighbors.”
Interested runners are invited to show up at the Candler Street Market, 1642 McLendon Ave., by 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. More information is online at www.candlerpark.org.
Each Saturday, we shine a spotlight on a local neighborhood, city or community. To suggest a place for us to visit, e-mail H.M. Cauley at hm_cauley@yahoo.com or call 404-514-6162.
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