The Corners Run Crew: Building a Safe and Positive Space in St. Catharines
In October 2019, after years of being inspired by the inclusive, super-rad vibes of pioneering international crews, a dedicated runner named Colin asked a simple question: "Why not here in St. Catharines?". From that question, The Corners Run Crew was born. It is a collection of individuals who come together each week to run, sweat, and connect socially. What started as an infant crew has built incredible momentum, becoming a powerful force for community building, charity, and advocacy in their city.
A Philosophy of "Positive Space"
The philosophy of The Corners Run Crew is a direct and powerful invitation. Their mantra, "Moderate Pace - Positive Space," serves as a reminder that the group is inclusive and open to all abilities, experiences, and backgrounds. They are, first and foremost, a 2SLGBTQ+, BIPOC, and body-positive safe space, guided by the welcoming belief that "You've already made this team." Founder Colin, who has been running for nearly 20 years, brings a supportive philosophy to the crew, encouraging people of all backgrounds to define their own goals and successes in a loving, no-attitude environment.
A Community of Advocacy and Action
Understanding that "It's bigger than the run," The Corners has become a pillar of its community through dedicated advocacy and action. Their positive impact has been recognized with awards from Pride Niagara and the De daw da devs nye>s Aboriginal Health Centre. They actively support local businesses and charities, raising awareness and thousands of dollars through events like 'Mindful Miles' in support of World Mental Health Day, 'The Rundown' Challenge each February, and 'Hope Runs Free,' an initiative designed to make running safer for women and marginalized populations. Their engagement goes beyond running, with Speaker Series events and their new 'No Corners Reading Circle' book club.
The culture of The Corners Run Crew is both consistent and incredibly adaptable. To ensure everyone feels comfortable, all routes are designed as out-and-back, allowing runners to choose their own pace and distance while ensuring the group starts and finishes together. Their busy weekly schedule includes nomadic runs on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 p.m., early morning runs on Thursdays at 6:30 a.m. (meeting at Cafe Pique-Nique), and adventurous Saturday trail runs at 8:30 a.m.
The Corners Run Crew extends a warm invitation to anyone looking for a truly inclusive and supportive community. They welcome people of all abilities and backgrounds to join their weekly runs, creating a space where connection and positivity are paramount. To stay connected, you can follow their journey on Instagram.
The Niagara Running Scene
The Corners Run Crew is a vital part of the running scene in St. Catharines and the wider Niagara Region, and their presence as a crew so dedicated to inclusivity and community advocacy has had a profound and positive impact on the entire local running culture.
The city of St. Catharines, known as "The Garden City," is the largest city in Canada's beautiful Niagara Region. Located between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, the area is world-famous for its wineries and the magnificent Niagara Falls. This scenic environment, with its network of trails and waterfront paths, provides a stunning backdrop for a passionate and community-focused running crew.
The Corners Run Crew: Building a Safe and Positive Space in St. Catharines
In October 2019, after years of being inspired by the inclusive, super-rad vibes of pioneering international crews, a dedicated runner named Colin asked a simple question: "Why not here in St. Catharines?". From that question, The Corners Run Crew was born. It is a collection of individuals who come together each week to run, sweat, and connect socially. What started as an infant crew has built incredible momentum, becoming a powerful force for community building, charity, and advocacy in their city.
A Philosophy of "Positive Space"
The philosophy of The Corners Run Crew is a direct and powerful invitation. Their mantra, "Moderate Pace - Positive Space," serves as a reminder that the group is inclusive and open to all abilities, experiences, and backgrounds. They are, first and foremost, a 2SLGBTQ+, BIPOC, and body-positive safe space, guided by the welcoming belief that "You've already made this team." Founder Colin, who has been running for nearly 20 years, brings a supportive philosophy to the crew, encouraging people of all backgrounds to define their own goals and successes in a loving, no-attitude environment.
A Community of Advocacy and Action
Understanding that "It's bigger than the run," The Corners has become a pillar of its community through dedicated advocacy and action. Their positive impact has been recognized with awards from Pride Niagara and the De daw da devs nye>s Aboriginal Health Centre. They actively support local businesses and charities, raising awareness and thousands of dollars through events like 'Mindful Miles' in support of World Mental Health Day, 'The Rundown' Challenge each February, and 'Hope Runs Free,' an initiative designed to make running safer for women and marginalized populations. Their engagement goes beyond running, with Speaker Series events and their new 'No Corners Reading Circle' book club.
The culture of The Corners Run Crew is both consistent and incredibly adaptable. To ensure everyone feels comfortable, all routes are designed as out-and-back, allowing runners to choose their own pace and distance while ensuring the group starts and finishes together. Their busy weekly schedule includes nomadic runs on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 p.m., early morning runs on Thursdays at 6:30 a.m. (meeting at Cafe Pique-Nique), and adventurous Saturday trail runs at 8:30 a.m.
The Corners Run Crew extends a warm invitation to anyone looking for a truly inclusive and supportive community. They welcome people of all abilities and backgrounds to join their weekly runs, creating a space where connection and positivity are paramount. To stay connected, you can follow their journey on Instagram.
The Niagara Running Scene
The Corners Run Crew is a vital part of the running scene in St. Catharines and the wider Niagara Region. Their presence as a crew dedicated to inclusivity and community advocacy has had a profound and positive impact on the entire local running culture.
The city of St. Catharines, known as "The Garden City," is the largest city in Canada's beautiful Niagara Region. Located between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, the area is world-famous for its wineries and the magnificent Niagara Falls. This scenic environment, with its network of trails and waterfront paths, provides a stunning backdrop for a passionate and community-focused running crew.
The crew's nomadic runs explore the best of the Niagara Region. A key local route is the Welland Canal Trail, which offers miles of flat, scenic paths along the massive waterway. The paths along the shore of Lake Ontario also provide a beautiful setting for a run. The premier racing event in the region is the Niagara Falls International Marathon, which has a rich history and a famously beautiful course that showcases the area's most iconic natural wonder.