Run for Fun | Run for Life

Runner2Runner introduces Cross Country and Track & Field to young athletes in a positive, inclusive, safe, and supportive environment

In 1998, Melissa Hill created a fun running program for her sons...

25 years later, Runner2Runner is still here. Over the years we have found that a positive introduction to running at an early age provides athletes a foundation to participate on their high school track or cross country teams, eventually run at the collegiate level, or the BEST outcome: continue the healthy habits and workouts they’ve learned for the rest of their lives.

A Program for Every Season.

We offer both XC and Track & Field Programs year round!

  • Cross Country seasons are in the fall, typically between September and November

  • Spring Break Camps will follow along with school schedules

  • Track & Field (or Run, Jump, Throw!) start late Spring

  • Summer Camps will happen between May and August, and are location dependent

We believe in…

  • Running is the foundation of nearly all sports. Whether it is running-heavy like soccer, or short-quick bursts needed for ping pong, cardiovascular fitness through running can improve how you play anything. Even a sport like golf that may not have the same physiological ask can still benefit from the focus, discipline, and drive learned in running.

    Ask any runner, the skills you gain through training are applicable to not just sport, but life.

  • There are few dedicated XC or Track-specific programs for kids before high school and even fewer that aren’t competition-focused. We know the power of these sports to change lives which is why we stay focused on the two.

  • Research shows that over-specialization and an emphasis on practice vs play before the age of 12 produces poor outcomes in creating life-long athletes. Kids risk burnout, injury, and general distaste for sport when they aren’t allowed to play! We have seen time and time again that injecting fun and games into our teams regularly creates a positive and inclusive environment where kids can not only improve, but thrive.

“They have created an environment where athletes of all abilities feel welcome and feel appreciated. Not only do they always remind kids about being supportive to others and about teamwork & sportsmanship, but they definitely lead by example in every sense of the word...

I am truly grateful.”

— N.S. from Clayton, Missouri