Being active together was the motivation for Kendall Funk-Wieler when he started the A-Town Runners in September 2022.
The group meets every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at TCE - rain, shine or snow! - for a lap or two around Altona.
"We all know that being active together, whether it's running or walking, it makes everybody happier," explained Funk-Wieler, who says that goes the same for himself. "I've done a number of long-distance running races where, especially in trail races where you're out in the wilderness, and all of a sudden you have a person you've never met come running up and start up a conversation and all of sudden, you're three hours in and we're best friends and we know everybody's life story. So, that's kind of the springboard for bringing people together because running is so much easier with people."
The number and ages of people who show up each week varies, and they aren't all runners - some choose to walk while others like to bike. After about 30 minutes of exercise, the group circles back to TCE for a cup of hot chocolate and a visit.
Initially starting as a 30-to-40-minute 5K run, the vibe quickly changed and now, there is no set distance or pace. "We started to run a little slower because we're talking all the time!" said Funk-Wieler.
While you might be thinking that this is a group for experienced runners, Funk-Wieler was quick to squash that sentiment, extending an open invitation to all who want to join in.
"Maybe people, whether it's running or working out, they're either intimidated or scared because they're new to the activity or movement and they aren't confident doing it in front of people," he explained. "So, a lot of people just default to doing it home, which is fine, or don't do it at all. But basically, I have a personal policy that no one is left behind or alone. I feel we can all learn from each other by our experiences, whether they have a goal of running an Ultra, 1 kilometre or the local 5K."
It's also become more accessible to be a part of the troupe, thanks to a partnership with the Curtis Klassen Memorial Fund that has donated some funds to help purchase the proper gear and equipment for those who perhaps can't afford quality items but would like to start running. The group also has a collection of gently used gear to pick from.
"Basically, no matter who you are or where you're from, that we can all gather around human movement," noted Funk-Wieler.
You can follow the A-Town Runners' activities and learn more by viewing the group's Instagram at a.town.runners
With files from Zack Driedger