Re-building Community After Helene

September 27th rocked all of Asheville. We were hit with a hurricane and flooding that this area had not seen in over 100 years. Our city was decimated right before our busiest season: fall. Fall colors are the thing tourists flock here for. The time that locals look forward to for business, hanging out with friends, and legitimately the PERFECT running weather. But instead of enjoying this time, we were left to pick up the pieces and try to figure out a new normal. Running became more of a therapeutic necessity than a social event.

4 months later, our run club was finally able to host our second ever pop-up run event. And let me tell you… the vibes were there!

Hugs all around as we finally got to run together at a larger event!

The Sauna House in Asheville were the perfect hosts for this event! Many women runners were greeted by music, smiles and hugs all around. Some of us hadn’t seen each other since before the storm. And some had never been to a run club event at all. Every single face had a smile on!

We had coffee to warm up before the run and set off! Some runners went 8 miles, while others went 4. There were groups running, jogging and walking at every pace. Women from all backgrounds, ages and jobs, all coming together to do something they love to do: RUN.

When everyone got back, we had snacks and hung out to spend time together. It was clear that we NEEDED this. This running group is so much more than just an exercise group. It’s a place for us women to fully relax, let our guards down, and come together in community around an activity that we love.

Written by:

Deanna Becraft