Brainsport’s free run club retired in 2023 after three decades, but there are a number of other running clubs and clinics operating throughout the city.
Here’s a look at some of the options available in Saskatoon. If you see we’re missing anything, email Brainsport Times editor Andrea Hill at andrea@brainsport.ca.
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Urban Adventurers
What: Several former members of the Brainsport run club now meet three times per week to run together. Runners feel comfortable at 6-6:30/km pace.
When and where: Mondays 6:30 p.m. at Gabriel Dumont Park parking lot (hill workout); Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at Eastlake by Nutana Collegiate (5km run); and Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. at Innovation Boulevard (long run of 10-15km).
Cost: Free; no registration required.
For more information contact Ken Stirling at urbanadventurers94@gmail.com.
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Harvey Mathies’ group
What: Former Brainsport staffer Harvey Mathies leads free run clubs for runners of all abilities twice a week. Participants try to ensure everyone has a group or partner to run or walk with and front runners wait for the last runners at a turnaround point and/or the end of the run. Runs typically ends with some visiting and a treat.
When: Mondays at 6 p.m. (34 min run; 17 min out and 17 min back) and Thursdays at 9 a.m. (5km).
Where: Both runs depart from Rotary Park.
Cost: Free; no registration required.
For more information contact Harvey Mathies at harveymathies@sasktel.net.
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9 Mile Run Club
What: Accompanied by a run club leader from 9 Mile, runners depart from the taproom and return there post-run for a beer (or two). Runners of all abilities welcome.
When: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Meet at the 9 Mile Legacy taproom at 229 20th St W.
Cost: Free; no registration required.
For more information contact Erin Sawatzky at e.sawatzky@9milelegacy.com.
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Fast Five Fridays
What: Runners do a seven-kilometre loop as a pack, with frequent stops to ensure no one is left behind. Optional post-run food and drinks.
When: Fridays at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Meet at the southeast corner of Second Avenue North and Queen Street.
Cost: Free; no registration required.
For more information visit the Fast Five Fridays Facebook group.
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Mendel Riverbank ParkRun
What: Complete a timed 5km course every Saturday morning.
When: Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Where: Meet on the Meewasin Train by the Wonderhub (950 Spadina Crescent East).
Cost: Free; please register online before attending.
For more information visit the Mendel Riverbank ParkRun website.
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Saskatoon Running Group Facebook group
What: This Facebook group is a great place for Saskatoon runners to connect and can lead to in-person meet ups, particularly if people are training for similar events.
Check out the group on Facebook.
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Brainsport Virtual Run Clinic Facebook group
What: A few times each year, a run coach from Brainsport shares workout plans geared toward helping people train for an upcoming Saskatchewan road race. The group is also a forum for runners to connect and facilitate in-person meet ups.
Cost: Free
