YAMAJO Run Crew: Amplifying Diversity and Crew Love in Montreal
In 2014, a new running movement was born in Montreal with a mission to embody a genuine love for running. YAMAJO Run Crew was founded by David Joseph and has made incredible strides across the city ever since. They pride themselves on being a "crew" rather than a club, a distinction they make due to the tight, family-like bond that is felt among all their members, whether they are newcomers or originals.
A Philosophy of 'Crew Love' and Inclusion
The philosophy of YAMAJO is rooted in the belief that running is a universal language that can unite individuals from all walks of life. Their guiding principles are simple and powerful: "All are welcome - none are left behind." They welcome runners of all levels, whether you are a seasoned marathoner or looking to run your first 5k, ensuring you have a place with them. The team is dedicated to helping members achieve their goals in a safe environment, all while having fun running to some tunes with their run mates. This focus on amplifying diversity and representation has made them a truly inclusive and welcoming space.
The community of YAMAJO is a testament to their philosophy. The crew consistently brings together around 75 runners for their weekly runs, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Their sense of family extends far beyond the run; post-running activities often include hiking, eating, and partying. They are also a globally-minded crew, planning road trips across Canada and the US, and flying out once a year to connect with crews in Europe or Asia. In a true show of "crew love," they extend a warm offer to any runners visiting Montreal to help them find lodging and show them one of the best cities in the world.
A Packed Week of Runs and Fun
The culture of YAMAJO is built around a consistent and diverse weekly schedule that caters to a variety of goals. The crew hosts three runs a week from their home base at the Little Burgundy Sports Centre. This includes a track session on Wednesdays to build speed, a dedicated workout on Saturdays, and an optional long run on Sundays for those looking to build endurance. To ensure everyone feels comfortable, they offer distinct pace groups: "Fast Pace" (4:45-5:15 min/km), "Middle Pace" (5:15-5:45 min/km), and the famously fun "Sexy Pace" (5:45-6:30 min/km).
YAMAJO Run Crew extends an open invitation to anyone and everyone. Rain, snow, or shine, no Montreal street is safe from them. They welcome all level runners to join their family and experience the transformative power of running, as well as the warmth of friendship. You can connect with them via their official Instagram.
The Montreal Running Scene
YAMAJO is a major force in Montreal's diverse and inclusive running scene. The city is home to numerous other crews, including the "good vibes only" de Grâce Running Collective in the NDG neighborhood, the free fitness movement November Project Montreal, and the performance-focused, queer-led Prefontaine Running Squad. This rich ecosystem of crews ensures a welcoming space for every type of runner.
The city of Montreal, the largest in Quebec, is renowned for its distinctive bilingual culture, European charm, and reputation as a year-round city that fosters an active lifestyle, despite its harsh winters. From their home base in the Little Burgundy neighborhood, the crew has easy access to some of the city's best running routes, including the historic Lachine Canal. The premier racing event in the city is the Montreal Marathon, which draws thousands of runners from near and far to its electric atmosphere.
