Guide to Metro Detroit Running Groups

Partners for All Paces of Runners, Fast, Slow and In-Between

May 4, 2009

Detroit might not have a 5K every weekend like Chicago does, or an elite marathon like Boston does, but the Motor City doesn't disappoint when it comes to running groups.

For those who are new to the area or just looking for some fresh inspiration to get moving, here’s a guide to some of the coolest runners in the neighborhood.

Detroit Downtown Runners and Walkers

An eclectic mix of casual runners, obsessive marathoners and grandma-aged walkers, the members of this group have one thing in common: They’re not afraid to get down and dirty on the streets of Detroit. Oh, and most of them like beer. The group meets every Tuesday at a different bar or restaurant to run a 4-8-mile route. Maps are provided and turnout is typically 30-40 people of varying different paces, so runners are never left alone. Those who stick around for dinner after the run will get to know some of the nicest (and strangest) people in Detroit. For more info: Downtown Runners

Hansons Group Runs

Clad in singlets and sporting GPS watches, the crowd at Hansons runs often resembles the starting line at Boston. In fact, the Hansons Distance Project (an elite racing team sponsored by the store) is home base to Olympic marathoner Brian Sell. But amateurs need not be intimidated; anyone is welcome to run with this diverse, friendly group. Runs are held several times each week at the Grosse Pointe, Lake Orion and Royal Oak Hansons locations, as well as at Dodge Park in Sterling Heights. For more info: Hansons Running

Dirt Road Divas

This running group is exactly what it sounds like. The mostly-female Divas meet at the crack of dawn most days to run before the little ones wake up. OK, so not all of the Divas have kids, but the 5:30 a.m. start time during the week ensures that those who do can sneak in their miles. For those who aren't early risers, there’s a weekly evening run, too. Members represent all abilities, from running virgins to marathon matrons. Most runs start at the corner of Beck and Hanford in Canton. For more info: Dirt Road Divas

Ann Arbor-Motown Hash House Harriers (MA2H3)

They gather anywhere from the lawns of Grosse Pointe to the back roads of Hell, Mich. One person brings the flour. Another brings the beer. They go by names such as “Diaper Rash,” and “Used Virgin.” Welcome to hashing. The tradition dates to 1938 in Kuala Lumpur and resembles a cross between a running club and a fraternity. To start the hash, a runner known as the” hare” lays a trail of flour or chalk, leaving false trails and checkpoints. Hashers follow the trail (which features at least one beer stop) to get to the On-After, at which point everyone circles up and dishes out “down-downs,” punishments for illegal behavior during the hash. Some people walk, some run, some just show up for the beer. All in all, it’s a dirty good time. For more info: A2H3

The copyright of the article Guide to Metro Detroit Running Groups in Running Training & Fitness is owned by Nicole Adamson. Permission to republish Guide to Metro Detroit Running Groups in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.