GRIT USA is a trailblazing, Black-owned multisport team based in Washington, D.C., that has been redefining endurance sports since its founding in January 2020. Established by the visionary Marcus, GRIT USA is more than just a team; it's a movement dedicated to fostering strength, pushing individual limits, and effecting sociocultural change within the sports community. They are known as "renegades of the triathlon world," and they host a challenging schedule of weekly brick workouts and long team bike rides designed to build a new, more inclusive generation of endurance athletes.
GRIT USA: The Renegades Redefining Endurance Sports in Washington, D.C.
In January 2020, a new force emerged in the world of triathlons and endurance sports. GRIT USA was established in Washington, D.C., by Marcus, a multidisciplinary designer, brand strategist, and endurance athlete. With a vision to transcend individual accomplishments, he created a Black-owned multisport team aimed at inspiring those around them, fostering strength through movement, and advocating for much-needed sociocultural change within the sports community.
The philosophy of GRIT USA revolves around three core pillars: pushing individuals to new limits, inspiring communities, and effecting sociocultural change. Drawing inspiration from the global underground movement Bridge the Gap, their approach is to use the urban landscape as a playground and an arena for growth. A significant aspect of their vision, driven by founder Marcus, is to establish a team led by Black coaches and race directors. This aims to create new opportunities for underrepresented athletes, challenge the existing organizational culture within the sport, and provide the representation that has been lacking in multisport events.
For the past seven years, Marcus has dedicated himself to introducing newcomers to the triathlon world while fostering a welcoming community for Black and minority athletes. He recognized a lack of pathways for urban youth and adults to access high-level programs, coaching opportunities, and clinics. GRIT USA was created to change that narrative, building a supportive and powerful community that reflects the true diversity of the city.
The culture of GRIT USA is built around challenging, consistent, and community-focused workouts designed for endurance athletes. Every Wednesday at 6 p.m., the team gathers at the East Potomac Golf Course parking lot for their signature "Brick" workout, which consists of a one-hour bike ride immediately followed by a 30-minute run to improve endurance and transition skills. On Saturdays at 8:30 a.m., they organize challenging team bike rides covering 50 miles at a "moderate to spicy" pace, averaging 21-23 mph, offering an opportunity to test limits and build cycling strength.
GRIT USA extends a powerful invitation to athletes of all levels in the Washington, D.C. area who are inspired by its mission. For those seeking to join a dedicated, supportive, and trailblazing multisport community, GRIT USA provides a platform to grow, train, and be part of a movement transforming the face of endurance sports.
While GRIT USA brings a unique, multisport focus to the city, they are part of a vibrant running and fitness scene in Washington, D.C. The city is also home to the pioneering District Running Collective (DRC), a large and diverse crew established in 2013 with a mission to positively impact the city through running and to make the sport feel like a lifestyle, not a chore. Together, these groups create a rich and supportive ecosystem for the city's athletes.
Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, offers a captivating and historic backdrop for runners and cyclists. Every run can feel like a journey through history, with iconic landmarks such as the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, and Capitol Hill. The city's diverse terrain and well-maintained trail systems provide a fantastic and varied training ground for endurance athletes of all preferences.
The members of GRIT USA utilize the capital's best training locations. Their Wednesday brick workouts take place in East Potomac Park, a location that offers long, flat, and uninterrupted roads perfect for cycling and running. The city is also home to the Capital Crescent Trail and the vast network of paths in Rock Creek Park, which cater to runners and cyclists of all preferences, from scenic jogs to challenging long rides.
The running calendar in Washington, D.C., is filled with exciting events that attract participants from all over the world. The world-renowned Marine Corps Marathon takes participants on an unforgettable journey past the city's most iconic landmarks. The Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run, held during the famous peak bloom, showcases the city's stunning natural beauty, while the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series brings the excitement of live music and a vibrant atmosphere to the city's streets.