Run The Rock Has Taken Off At Full Speed

It's definitely the season for running, or doing outside exercise. Janice Fuller knows this as well as anyone.

A long time fitness instructor and enthusiast, Fuller is always finding ways to stay active and help others be the same way. This slender lady with the bright smile and short dreads has now formed a successful running group in Rock Hill, SC called Run The Rock or #runtherock.

The group had very humble beginnings. Janice simply posted on Facebook in 2011 that she was looking for runners, but to no avail.  She then posted that she would be running on Mondays at 5:30am. There were about four people that joined her on Mondays. She then made another post about her running and helping those train for upcoming 5ks. The numbers started increasing at that point.

Present day, the group averages around 40 runners on each day, with 70 being their largest turnout. There is certainly power in numbers. 

Run The Rock runs on Mondays at 5:30am at the Winthrop Coliseum,  Tuesdays (at Food Lion on Ebenezer Road) and Thursdays (Hwy 5 plaza across from Northwestern High) at 5am and Saturdays at 7am at the Winthrop Coliseum. Group members and guests simply run, jog or walk 3-5 miles. No fee is required. Just bring some comfortable running shoes, water, a hand towel, and excitement and determination.

Currently there are no evening runs due to Ms. Fuller's intense evening teaching schedule. There may be one coming in the Fall, as the schedule will be adjusted to accomodate the cooler weather.

The group has a day trip planned for Saturday, July 26 to go to Crowders Mountain and challenge those hills. They are also considering doing a 5K in October and perhaps a 10K shortly thereafter.
Run The Rock has gotten lots of local media attention around Rock Hill and surrounding areas. This group is moving, growing and simply having fun.

Becoming a part is easy. Simply search for "Run The Rock" on Facebook, or meet Janice and company at one of the dates listed above. They welcome people of all levels.

What Janice Fuller is doing is a wonderful service. It is hard pressed to find a running group or even a running partner in smaller cities. Fuller has proven with persistence and consistence, it is possible.

Get in on a run, jog, or walk, at Ieast on the weekend while you can. 5am or 7am are early times, but can be worthwhile, especially if you're in the area. You're sure to not regret it!