NOT RUNNING ANYMORE
Prefontaine Running Squad: The Ultimate Running Crew for Advanced Runners in Montreal
In the fall of 2019, Montreal-based runners Lecia, Alex, and Véro noticed that their neighbourhood lacked a running community. Despite having one of the largest parks on the island, there was no club catering to runners in the area. After discussing this issue, the trio finally set up their own running crew, the Prefontaine Running Squad (PRE), after running the Chicago marathon.
How the name Prefontaine Running Squad came about
The name Prefontaine Running Squad was inspired by the legendary Steve Prefontaine, who has been a source of inspiration for the group. While their neighbourhood’s metro station is Prefontaine, it is not related to the legendary runner. However, Lecia, Alex, and Véro wanted to incorporate his spirit of speed and determination into their running crew’s name.
The unique leadership of the Prefontaine Running Squad
The Prefontaine Running Squad is unique because it is founded and led by three queer women. The group hopes to inspire the community and its allies to run for pleasure, pride, and performance, regardless of their background.
Why the Prefontaine Running Squad caters to advanced runners
The Prefontaine Running Squad is open to all runners but tends towards a more advanced pace. Most of the running crews in the Montreal area cater to runners of all levels, but Lecia, Alex, and Véro wanted to provide a space for more experienced runners with established run goals.
The exhilarating experience of running with the Prefontaine Running Squad
Running with the Prefontaine Running Squad is an exhilarating experience, as the crew offers a challenging pace and an opportunity to explore the city. Every Wednesday, the crew meets at 5:30 pm at Mutoïde – Microbrasserie, located at 7235 Rue de Marseille, on the east end of the island of Montreal. This trendy microbrewery is the perfect spot for runners to meet up and grab a refreshing drink after their run.
The Prefontaine Running Squad’s weekly meet-up time is 4:45-5:45, and the group follows a different route each week. Running with the Prefontaine Running Squad is about challenging oneself and exploring the city in a new light.
Prefontaine Running Squad – In A Nutshell
The Prefontaine Running Squad is the ultimate running crew for advanced runners in Montreal. Founded and led by three queer women, the Prefontaine Running Squad provides a challenging pace and an opportunity to explore the city while exercising. With Montreal’s vast network of bike paths, running trails, and notable running events, there is no shortage of opportunities for runners to experience the city uniquely.
Exploring Montreal’s running scene
Montreal is a vibrant and multicultural city located in Quebec, Canada. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and thriving arts and culture scene. The city is also home to many parks and outdoor spaces, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Running is popular in Montreal, with many residents and visitors taking advantage of the city’s beautiful parks and waterfront trails. The city has a vast network of bike paths and running trails. Some of the most popular running spots in the city include Mount Royal Park, La Fontaine Park, and the Lachine Canal. These parks and trails offer a stunning backdrop for runners to explore the city while exercising.
Montreal’s popular running events
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, Montreal has something to offer for every type of runner. Montreal has several running events throughout the year, attracting runners worldwide. One of the most famous events is the Montreal Marathon, which takes place every September and features a full marathon, half marathon, and 10K. The event attracts thousands of runners and spectators, and the course takes participants through some of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods and landmarks. Other popular events include the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and the Banque Scotia 21K de Montréal, offering unique courses and a fun atmosphere for runners. These events attract runners from all over the world and allow runners to experience the city uniquely.
Discover Montreal’s Vast Network of Running Crews
Montreal has a long-standing history of being a runner hub, with its vast network of parks and trails that attract runners from all over the city. In recent years, the city has witnessed a surge of running crews, each with a unique personality and style. While the Prefontaine Running Squad is the only crew founded by three queer women, there are other notable running crews in the Montreal area, like November Project Montreal, NDG Run Rite Athletics Club, and Yamajo Run Crew.
November Project Montreal is part of a global free fitness movement that started in Boston in 2011. The group meets twice a week, and their workouts are always free, open to all fitness levels, and require no registration or RSVP. The group’s motto is “Just show up,” Their goal is to make fitness accessible to everyone. November Project Montreal provides a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals to unite and push themselves beyond their limits.
NDG Run Rite Athletics Club is a community of runners and athletes who come together to train and support each other in achieving their fitness goals. They welcome runners of all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes, and provide a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals to come together and work towards a common goal. The group offers various programs, including running, track and field, and strength training.
Yamajo Run Crew is another running community worth checking out. They pride themselves on being more than just a running group. Their mission is to unite people through running, socializing, and community engagement. They believe that running is a universal language that transcends cultural barriers and has the power to bring people together. Yamajo Run Crew is known for their vibrant and energetic group runs, which always end with a post-run hangout at a local spot.