EDMOND—Twenty-one Herbert W. Armstrong College students, ranging from freshmen to seniors, braved chilly winds at Mitch Park on November 15 for a 5-kilometer run. Rain sprinkled the enthusiasts of the college’s informal cross country club as they performed their stretches and pumped each other up for their first run.

Participants said that running in several groups made the experience more enjoyable, especially when they needed moral support to keep up the pace.

“I like to run, and it was lovely to be able to run off-campus in the park,” junior Maree Tolis said. “I’d never run in that area before, and it was awesome to have the camaraderie of a large group. You can be quite social and help each other through it. Plus, there isn’t the pressure of a race or marathon.”

“The rain definitely added an adventurous aspect that I loved,” freshman Amber Eagle said.

Senior Michael Cocomise said he enjoys the club’s camaraderie, which makes it easier to run longer distances. He added that the club feels like a giant family running together.

Freshman Joella Tolis said she loves the social aspect the most. “I love the fact that we can all get together, do something, and then see progress in others,” she said. “Also I love that we can do something social and beneficial to our health. I like the fact that I can practice my running and have a great chat with whoever is running with me.”

Runners began arriving back at the parking lot within 30 minutes. A handful of students inadvertently took the long way, adding more than a mile to their run, but the members of the group said they enjoyed the experience.

Senior Justin Goodearl said, “Definitely going to participate again! Can’t wait for our next run!”

This experience was the first run for the club, which meets on free Sundays with between 15 and 21 participants. Runners come for the friendship and to train for the December 13 Swans in Flight 5k run and the April 24 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon.