G10 Runners: From University Roots to Uniting Colleges Across Java

In October 2013, a group of alumni from the Bandung Institute of Technology's 1989 class decided to reunite with a shared goal: to adopt a healthier lifestyle. They began to gather for runs, and from this simple idea, G10 Runners was born. Their first anniversary was a huge success, attracting not just fellow alumni but also current students. This fusion of generations sparked a movement that would grow far beyond a single campus.

The philosophy of G10 Runners is deeply intertwined with its name and origin. "G10" refers to Jalan Ganesha No. 10, the address of the Bandung Institute of Technology, and the university's logo features Ganesha, the Hindu "God of Knowledge." The crew's mission is to "deliver the knowledge of Ganesha"—representing strength, perseverance, and wisdom—to its members and the wider community through the act of running. While the crew began with a group of alumni, its explosive growth was spearheaded by two captains: Beny, who rallied the alumni, and Agree, who brought together the students.

The community of G10 Runners evolved dramatically from its initial campus focus. As the younger members' regular sessions impressed friends from other universities, the crew decided to open its doors, creating the #unitethecollege initiative. This was a resounding success, quickly growing to unite five, and eventually 11, different university campuses around the island of Java. This incredible expansion has made G10 Runners a major unifying force in the Indonesian running scene, earning them a feature in publications like the #allplanet yellow pages by Fantome.

The culture of G10 Runners is consistent, welcoming, and rooted in their university origins. Their activities are anchored by a regular weekly run schedule, with meetups on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:00 a.m. and on Sundays at 6:00 a.m. The traditional starting point for these runs is the iconic ITB Main Gate in Bandung, a nod to their history. These runs bring together people from all walks of life, from alumni to first-year students, to share in a healthy habit.

G10 Runners extends a warm invitation to students, alumni, and any runner in Bandung who wants to connect with their unique, university-rooted culture. Running with them is a fantastic way to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and learn about Indonesia's fascinating history and culture.

G10 Runners are a major institution in Bandung's running scene, but they share the city with other passionate communities. This includes groups like BR20, another local crew that promotes a healthy lifestyle by bringing runners together to explore the city's many routes. Together, these crews create a vibrant and supportive ecosystem for runners in the West Java capital.

The cool, mountainous city of Bandung, Indonesia, offers a unique contrast. Known as the "Paris of Java" during the colonial era, Bandung is the capital of West Java province and is situated in a river basin surrounded by volcanic mountains. This geography gives it a milder, cooler climate than most Indonesian cities, making it an ideal and enjoyable location for a thriving, year-round running culture.

The home base and spiritual heart of G10 Runners is the beautiful campus of the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB). However, the city of Bandung is a runner's paradise, famous for its beautiful scenery and hilly terrain. The crew and other local runners take full advantage of the winding roads and scenic hillside trails that offer both a significant challenge and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The city is also known for its excellent food, providing the perfect delicious reward after a long run.

The running community in Bandung is active in a variety of local and national racing events. A major highlight on the city's calendar is the Bandung Marathon, which attracts thousands of participants from across Indonesia and the world. Another massively popular event is the Pocari Sweat Run, one of the largest and most anticipated races in the country, renowned for its festive and energetic atmosphere.