Hit The Ground Running In 2021

You Say You Want a Resolution? Check out these local run groups. Oh, and don't forget the food and drink that comes after!

Katelynn Bell

The beginning of a new year is always symbolic, but this year, more than most, finds many of us around the world collectively embracing the idea of a fresh start. Given the demands of 2020, New Year’s resolutions might look a little bit different this year. If you’re resolving to exercise more, why not start by joining a local run group? You get to exercise outdoors safely, meet new people, and look forward to good food and beer as a reward. Plus, there are no membership or cancellation fees! All you have to do is show up and find the people in running clothes (until Spring you might want to bring a headlamp or flashlight). ALL paces are welcome. Check out these local run groups:

Monday Night Rio Run

When: Mondays at 6pm

Where: Rio Cantina in North Augusta

Before the run starts, the group discusses the 3-4 mile route around North Augusta neighborhoods and the Greeneway. Then you’re off at any pace you choose. After the run, gather in front of Rio Cantina and/or the Sharon Jones Amphitheater for a socially-distanced hangout (and a nice view of the river). Some people will BYOB and chairs. I love grabbing a fast to-go order from Rio Cantina (usually only takes 5-10 minutes) and look forward to my post-run Chicken Cantina Tacos with Chips and Queso.

Stillwater/Nacho Mama’s Run

When: intermittently on Tuesdays at 6pm (check the Monday Night Rio Run Facebook group for updates)

Where: Stillwater/Nacho Mamas

Once one of the more popular weeknight running groups, the Stillwater/Nacho Mama’s run lost some of its hustle when the leaders of the group moved out of town. Now it’s finding its legs again, but you’ll want to be sure they are meeting each week. The route will take you along Broad Street and the Riverwalk for about a 3-mile loop back to Stillwater, where you can drink your reward with one of the many tasty beers they offer on tap. My favorite thing is to order a beer from Nacho Mama’s bar while I wait for my to-go order so I have dinner to bring home after the run.

The Augusta Chronicle

Riverwatch Brewery Run Club

When: Fridays at 6pm

Where: Riverwatch Brewery (stay up-to-date on their Facebook Event Page)

This run has become pretty popular, for good reason. When you arrive at the Riverwatch Brewery, head upstairs and grab a wristband from one of the employees before taking off on an approximately 3.5 mile run through downtown Augusta and along the Riverwalk. When you are finished, that wristband will grant you a free beer! As the runners trickle in (again, ALL paces are welcome), they gather on the spacious outdoor patio for some lively socialization. It’s both a nice cap to the workweek and a healthy start to the weekend.

Katelynn Bell

Katelynn Bell is an Augusta native, freelance writer, and artist. She is an avid runner and cyclist, which keeps her appetite strong for exploring the local cuisine and interesting restaurant and bar offerings throughout the region with her friends and constant companion, her dog Parra. Follow her for (mostly) dog pictures at @rksbell.

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