Run Pack Berlin: The Rebel Crew That Runs on Friendship
In the heart of Berlin, a running revolution was ignited by a group of rebel runners who refused to let their dreams fade. In early 2013, six friends—Kathi, Flo, Henrik, Kai, Sven, and Lukas—were part of a Nike-sponsored crew. When the brand shifted its focus, they were cast aside. Undeterred, these determined souls banded together, and on March 18, 2013, inspired by the glamorous Rat Pack of the 1960s, they christened themselves Run Pack Berlin. This act of defiance marked the beginning of an inspiring journey that would lead them to build a thriving empire that champions unity, acceptance, and an insatiable thirst for adventure.
A Philosophy Where the Runners Make the Run
The philosophy of Run Pack is perfectly encapsulated in their motto: "For us, the runners make the run." For this crew, it's not just about running; it's about the people who make it all possible. They are driven by their goals and ambitions, but never take themselves too seriously—a shared beer before or even during a race is not unheard of. Their identity is also captured in their iconic logos, from the sleek "RP" to the infamous "Bärendogge," a humorous misinterpretation of the Berlin bear that has become an integral part of their lore. While they are selective in their membership, it is not based on elitism, but rather on finding like-minded individuals with whom they can socialize, travel, and share experiences.
The community of Run Pack is a testament to their resilience and enduring spirit. Though the founding members have evolved over time, "remaining originals" Henrik and Sven now stand as beacons of inspiration, guiding the Pack with the support of a strong core team including Mella, Anne, and Tessa. With members hailing from over a dozen countries, they have cultivated a truly global and diverse family, united by an unbreakable bond that fuels their every stride.
Tuesday Nights and Marathon Madness
The culture of Run Pack comes to life in their legendary weekly runs and their even more legendary race day support. Their signature Tuesday run is a beloved tradition, drawing 20-40 members for an invigorating 10K through the city with four different pace groups. But their most famous cultural contribution is their epic Cheer Point at the Berlin Marathon. At the pivotal km 37 mark, at Bülowstrasse and Potsdamer Strasse, they host a massive, loud, and crowded party that attracts members of running crews from all over the globe, creating an electric atmosphere and injecting runners with an unforgettable surge of energy for the final 5 kilometers.
Run Pack Berlin extends an invitation to runners who share their unique ethos. They are a community built on mutual support and a shared passion for the sport and the social life that surrounds it. For those who believe that social and emotional abilities are just as important as running pace and are looking for a crew to travel and celebrate with, they are encouraged to connect via their official social media channels.
The Berlin Running Scene
Run Pack is a central pillar in Berlin's vibrant and diverse running scene. They share the city with a multitude of other remarkable crews, including the high-energy KRAFT Runners, the multi-sport and youth-focused Berlin Braves, and the performance-oriented Berlin Track Club. This inter-crew camaraderie, often on display at the Run Pack cheer zone, creates an exciting and supportive network that permeates the entire city.
Berlin, a city of boundless energy and diversity, provides the perfect backdrop for this thriving running culture. Its famously flat and fast streets, iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, and vast green spaces make it a playground for runners seeking both performance and adventure. The premier racing events are the BMW Berlin-Marathon, a World Marathon Major, and the Generali Berlin Half Marathon, both of which see the entire city come alive with the thunderous beat of feet hitting the pavement.
