ANKARUNNING: The Pioneers Who Brought Running to the Streets of Ankara

Crew at a Glance Since August 2014, ANKARUNNING has been the driving force transforming the athletic landscape of Ankara, Turkey. As the city's original running crew, this vibrant community brings together a remarkably diverse group of people, aged 17 to 45, with the shared goal of running together. By participating in over 30 races annually, both locally and internationally, ANKARUNNING has committed to helping individuals achieve their personal goals and, more importantly, to attract more people into the active, supportive, and exhilarating world of running.

Introduction

Before 2014, the streets of Ankara, Turkey's bustling capital, were not often filled with the rhythmic sound of running shoes. Despite the inhabitants' love for sports, street running was a rarity. Harsh seasonal conditions and a lack of accessible roads and trails created significant barriers. That all began to change in August 2014, when a group of pioneering runners decided to challenge the status quo. They formed ANKARUNNING, a community that would not only navigate these challenges but would actively work to bring the joy of running out of gyms and onto the city's pavement.

Philosophy & Founders

Founded by a collective of forward-thinking runners, ANKARUNNING is built on a simple yet powerful philosophy: to make running in Ankara a visible, accessible, and community-driven activity. Their primary goal extends beyond mere encouragement; they aim "not only to attract but to draw" people into the sport and the exhilarating world of racing. They believe in the transformative power of setting and achieving personal goals and have created an environment dedicated to helping every member, whether an amateur or a professional, do just that.

Community & Collaboration

The true strength of ANKARUNNING lies in its incredible diversity and active participation. The community is a microcosm of Ankara itself, with students, employees, housewives, pensioners, and athletes of all levels running side by side. This mix of backgrounds creates a rich and supportive atmosphere. Their commitment is further demonstrated by their ambitious race schedule, as they travel together as a team to more than 30 races each year. Their presence is felt at major Turkish events like the Istanbul Marathon and the Cappadocia Ultra Trail, as well as at international races. This shared pursuit of challenges has forged a tight-knit community willing to do whatever it takes to help each other cross the finish line.

Culture & Activities

The culture within ANKARUNNING is one of dedication, support, and shared ambition. Their activities focus on consistent training and preparation for their numerous yearly races. They have created a dynamic where individual goals are supported by group efforts, fostering an environment where runners of all abilities can thrive. Whether it's a casual training run through the city or a focused session preparing for a marathon, the crew's energy is always directed toward mutual improvement and a collective passion for the sport.

Invitation

ANKARUNNING maintains a welcoming ethos, consistent with their mission to encourage more people to join the sport. Their focus on helping individuals with personal goals creates an open door for any motivated person in Ankara looking to start their running journey or find a supportive community to help them reach the next level. The best way to connect with them is through their official Instagram page.

About the City

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is a sprawling, modern metropolis with a continental climate. As I write this from Berlin on a pleasant Friday in June, Ankara experiences hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters—conditions that demand resilience and dedication from any year-round runner. The city's rolling hills also add a layer of difficulty and variety to its running routes, making it a rewarding place to train.

Routes & Landmarks

Runners in Ankara utilize a variety of parks and lakeside paths to escape city traffic. A favorite destination for ANKARUNNING is the area around Eymir Lake, located on the Middle East Technical University campus, which offers a serene and popular loop for running and cycling away from the urban bustle. Other popular spots include Gençlik Parkı, a large public park in the city center, and the green spaces surrounding Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, which provide both a historical backdrop and a place for respectful recreation.

Local Races

ANKARUNNING's participation in over 30 races a year means they are a constant presence at events across Turkey and beyond. In Ankara itself, runners can participate in various events throughout the year. The city hosts several 10K races and fun runs, such as the Eker I Run, which also takes place in other Turkish cities. For major marathon experiences, crew members often travel as a team to other hubs in Turkey for premier events like the Istanbul Marathon or the Izmir Marathon, carrying the spirit of Ankara's running community with them.