Running Buddies build the community by running
The idea of running in groups ensures safety and also builds friendships within the community.
![Group of Buddies during their weekday run. Photo: Running Buddies.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/07/821f8a06-d6fa-4e3b-_91395-e1690531333842-722x470.jpg)
Running Buddies are a group of friends who run together, share, and support one another while also having fun. The name of the group accurately describes what they are, buddies. It began as a result of COVID in 2020 and has been going on ever since.
These athletes run in groups to keep each other safe while running and to get to know their neighbours.
![Running Buddies hope to attract more runners to the community. Photo Running Buddies.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/07/285308579_176990922_73911-e1690531259438-520x307.jpg)
“Running in groups provides safety for the athletes and fosters a sense of camaraderie and belonging within their community. It allows them to build strong relationships with fellow runners, encouraging mutual support and motivation throughout their training journeys,” said Benjamin O’Neil, a social media and general run activities coordinator at Running Buddies.
“If we have to single out one purpose of the group it is to encourage participation in numbers. Not only from a security point of view but we all know the benefits that come with participating in groups. Running Buddies provides the community with a safe and secure environment for runners of all levels, and distances from walkers to advanced athletes,” he added.
![Running Buddies before the run. Photo: Running Buddies.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/07/IMG_4956_90568-520x390.jpg)
Buddies have morning runs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, and afternoon runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays that are hosted at the Constantiakruin Church at 17:00.
The time trial is every Wednesday at Boskruin Tennis Club at 17:30 Saturdays and Sundays are confirmed every week.
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