RingRunRoad: The "Gossip Pace" Crew That Sparked a Movement in Balikpapan

In 2013, as the global running culture was on the rise, a group of friends in the Indonesian city of Balikpapan was inspired to take action. Raden, Elsa, and Boim were not runners, but they wanted to start. They decided to create their own club, one that would prioritize having fun and building a community over serious competition. From this simple idea, RingRunRoad was born, a crew that has since sparked a huge movement of runners in their city.

A Philosophy of Fun, Friendship, and "Gossip Pace"

The philosophy of RingRunRoad is a testament to its origins as a group of non-runners. They don't really care about mileage; they run to have fun. The founders created a space that would be welcoming and non-intimidating for everyone. Their regular get-together runs are designed to be as chill as possible, and they have a signature pace that perfectly encapsulates their social spirit: the "gossip pace." This approach ensures that the focus is always on connection and enjoyment.

The community of RingRunRoad is a shining example of a lasting legacy. Although the original founders, Raden, Elsa, and Boim, are no longer active in the community, the movement they initiated continues to thrive. The first captain, Raden, known as "the coach," was a great motivator who inspired everyone who joined the crew. Their success proves that a strong foundation of friendship and fun can create a community that endures.

A "Whenever, Wherever" Culture

The culture of RingRunRoad is uniquely flexible and relaxed. Recognizing that its members are all very busy and "sometimes lazy," their running schedule is a "whenever we want and wherever we want to run" plan. This informal approach allows the crew to adapt to the needs of its members. While their regular runs are at a "gossip pace," they are also capable of getting serious. When a race is on the calendar, the crew sets up a more structured training schedule to help everyone prepare.

RingRunRoad extends a warm invitation to any runner in Balikpapan seeking a relaxed, fun, and non-intimidating community. They have proven that you don't have to be a serious athlete to be a runner. For those who believe in having fun and building friendships, we encourage you to connect with the crew via our official social media channels.

The Balikpapan Running Scene

As the crew that is credited with starting a "huge movement," RingRunRoad is a foundational pillar of the running community in Balikpapan. Their success has likely inspired the creation of other running groups and sports clubs in the city, which together have fostered a strong and growing culture of health and fitness in the region.

The city of Balikpapan is a major seaport and economic hub in the province of East Kalimantan, Indonesia, located on the island of Borneo. Known as one of Indonesia's cleanest and most livable cities, its coastal location provides a beautiful and scenic environment for its passionate running community.

As a nomadic crew, the runners of RingRunRoad use their entire city as their playground. Their runs can take them anywhere, from the city center to the beautiful waterfront along Kemala Beach. For a more natural escape, the Wana Wisata KM 10 forest area offers a great setting for a run among the trees. The local running calendar in East Kalimantan province features a variety of races, ranging from 5Ks to marathons, providing plenty of goals for dedicated runners to train for.