Three Run Two: It's "Us and You" on the Streets of Chicago
In the heart of Chicago, Three Run Two has established itself as a community built on a passion for self-improvement, cultural awareness, and the powerful connections forged through running. They are a crew that is unapologetically itself—organic, relatable, and a true reflection of Chicago proper. They have successfully created a space where people from all backgrounds can come together to break bread, break personal records, and be good sports both on and off the field.
A Philosophy of 'Us and You'
The philosophy of Three Run Two is best understood through their iconic motto: "Us And You, Your Momma And Your Cousin Too." This line, from the classic hip-hop track "Scenario," is a radical statement of inclusivity. It guides a community that is decidedly diverse and celebrates the differences of all its members. They don't define themselves by speed or distance, but by a shared commitment to showing up, supporting one another, and creating an energetic culture of activity and identity without limitation.
The culture of Three Run Two is a perfect blend of social connection and athletic ambition. Their weekly runs, with paces adjusted according to the participants, create a flexible and welcoming environment. Tuesday and Thursday nights tend to see the largest gatherings of runners, becoming the anchor for their community. They are a crew that believes in both breaking personal records and breaking bread, ensuring that the social bonds are just as important as the physical effort.
Three Run Two extends a warm and authentic invitation to anyone in Chicago. They welcome everyone, but in the spirit of their community-first approach, they also offer some friendly advice: it's always a good idea to bring a buddy if it's your first time and you're concerned about running alone, especially for their faster Tuesday morning sessions. This honest and practical approach is a hallmark of their supportive culture.
The Chicago Running Scene
As one of the city's most influential crews, Three Run Two is a central pillar of Chicago's incredible running scene. The "Windy City" is home to a multitude of other running groups and clubs, each with its own unique identity. This rich and diverse ecosystem has fostered a powerful and supportive network for the city's thousands of passionate athletes.
The city of Chicago, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a world-class hub of architecture, music, and art. It is a city with a tough, resilient, and authentic character, which is perfectly reflected in its running community. Its stunning skyline and vast network of parks and paths provide a spectacular backdrop for a run in any season, despite the notoriously cold winters.
Chicago offers some of the most iconic urban running routes in the world. The crown jewel is the Lakefront Trail, an 18-mile path that offers breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. For a more modern urban experience, The 606 (also known as the Bloomingdale Trail) is an elevated 2.7-mile park built on a former railway line, providing a unique perspective on the city's vibrant neighborhoods. The premier racing event in the city is the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. As one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors, this incredibly fast and flat race attracts over 40,000 runners from around the globe each October in a massive celebration of the sport.
