Black Roses NYC – A Unique and Exclusive Running Collective
The Black Roses NYC is a unique and exclusive running collective in New York City that aims to promote the culture and lifestyle of running through intense group training. It was founded by Knox and Jessie in 2013 and was initially aimed at runners who were interested in New York City’s downtown life.
The Black Roses training approach
Black Roses is not a coaching program but instead focuses on developing runners both as individuals and as part of the group. The training sessions are structured based on members’ upcoming goal races, and the weekly meeting points vary depending on the type of workout.
The diverse community of Black Roses NYC
The group is made up of an eclectic mix of people, including nurses, out-of-work bartenders, marketing types, and DJs, all of whom share a passion for running and the New York City street culture. The team meets twice a week for structured track practices, and practices can range from five 1Ks to descending ladders of 5K, 3K, 1K, 300m, and more. The aim is to create a community of runners who push each other to achieve their goals and think beyond their own aspirations to positively impact the broader running culture.
Joining the Black Roses
To join Black Roses NYC, one must get invited to wear the infamous black bib, and practices are not for casual runners. The team travels in a pack, and they are fast—think Boston-qualifying, almost pro-runner fast. They work hard and party hard, creating a culture that balances intense training sessions with a lively and energetic social scene.
Barrington Levy
From an outsider’s perspective, the Black Roses can be intimidating, but they are friendly and focused. They are all working towards “goals beyond” chosen by Robinson, which prompts the team to think about what’s beyond their current goals, such as what happens after they qualify for the Olympic Trials and for Boston. The Black Roses exist and operate in a part of running culture that is unique and counter to major marketing campaigns. They are an outlier, with a theme that comes from a classic song from Barrington Levy, which was super popular in Jamaica and dancehall culture. Thematically, it’s about the rarest flower in the garden—the kind you never see.
In conclusion
Black Roses NYC is a unique and exclusive running collective that creates a community of runners who push each other to achieve their goals while positively impacting the broader running culture. They have a strong culture that balances intense training sessions with a lively social scene, making it a group that is not for the casual runner.
Running in New York City
Popular running locations in NYC
Running in New York City can be a unique and exhilarating experience. With numerous parks, trails, and paths throughout the five boroughs, there are plenty of options for runners of all levels. Central Park is a popular destination for runners, with its scenic paths and challenging hills. Prospect Park in Brooklyn and Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens are also great options for those looking for a more natural setting. The Hudson River Greenway offers a picturesque waterfront route along the west side of Manhattan. Running groups and clubs are plentiful in the city, providing a sense of community and motivation for runners. However, with the crowds and traffic, running in NYC can also present some challenges, such as navigating busy intersections and avoiding tourist-heavy areas.
Running events in NYC
New York City is home to some of the world’s most famous running events, including the New York City Marathon, which draws thousands of runners from around the globe. The marathon route takes runners through all five boroughs of the city, starting in Staten Island and finishing in Central Park. The marathon has a rich history, dating back to 1970, and has become an iconic event that showcases the city’s diversity and spirit. In addition to the marathon, there are also a variety of other running events held throughout the year in New York City, ranging from 5Ks to half-marathons, and even unique events like the Empire State Building Run-Up, where runners race up 86 flights of stairs to the top of the iconic skyscraper.
Other popular NYC running crews
Running crews have become a popular trend in New York City, and the Black Roses is just one of many. These groups offer a sense of community and support, as well as a unique way to experience the city. Other popular crews include the Bridge Runners, Harlem Run, and the Orchard Street Runners. Each group has its own personality and style, but they all share a passion for running and a love for their city. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, there’s a crew out there for everyone. Running crews have transformed the way people view running and have helped create a vibrant running culture in New York City.
Goldfinger Track Club
Goldfinger Track Club is a running crew in Brooklyn that focuses on training for track races and promoting a healthy lifestyle through running. The crew is open to runners of all levels, from beginners to experienced athletes.
Spartan Sundays Run Club
Spartan Sundays Run Club is a running crew in Queens that combines running with other physical activities, such as yoga and calisthenics. The group meets on Sundays for a workout and then has brunch together afterwards.
24×7 Movement
24×7 Movement is a running crew in the Bronx that is dedicated to creating a positive impact in their community through running. They organize regular group runs and also participate in community events and volunteer work.
Lostboys Track Club
Lostboys Track Club is a running crew in Manhattan that emphasizes training for competitive track and field events. They also focus on building a strong sense of community and support among their members.
Streets 101
Streets 101 is a running crew in Brooklyn that aims to promote running as a means of exploring the city and building connections with others. They organize group runs through different neighborhoods and also participate in community events.
Old Man Run Club
Old Man Run Club is a running crew in Queens that welcomes runners of all ages and abilities. They focus on creating a supportive environment where runners can connect with each other and improve their fitness.
Team Wepa
Team Wepa is a running crew in the Bronx that celebrates their Latinx heritage through running and community events. They aim to promote health and wellness in their community through running and other physical activities.
MTAR Crew
MTAR Crew is a running crew in Manhattan that focuses on running as a means of self-expression and creativity. They organize runs through different parts of the city and also participate in street art projects.
We Run Uptown
We Run Uptown is a running crew in Washington Heights that is dedicated to promoting health and wellness in their community. They organize group runs and also participate in community events and outreach programs.
No Regrets Runners
No Regrets Runners is a running crew in Queens that focuses on helping runners achieve their personal goals and improve their fitness. They provide support and encouragement through group runs and training sessions.
Boogie Down Bronx Runners
Boogie Down Bronx Runners is a running crew in the Bronx that aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and community engagement through running. They organize regular group runs and also participate in community events and volunteer work.
Harlem Run
Harlem Run is a running crew in Harlem that aims to create a welcoming and supportive environment for runners of all levels. They organize group runs and also participate in community events and outreach programs.
Iron Runners NYC
Iron Runners NYC is a running crew in Manhattan that focuses on training for competitive races, such as marathons and ultramarathons. They also emphasize building a strong sense of community and support among their members.
BridgeRunners
BridgeRunners is a running crew in Brooklyn that aims to promote health and wellness through running and community engagement. They organize group runs and also participate in community events and volunteer work.