East Van Run Crew: Where Post-Run Beers Sparked a Vancouver Community
The story of the East Van Run Crew has humble and authentic beginnings. In April 2014, a few individuals training for a local half-marathon had the brilliant idea to incorporate post-run beers into their routine. This casual gathering quickly became a regular event. What started as a simple reward evolved into a thriving community. Led by founder Ryan, EVRC has since become a pivotal part of the local running scene. They attract individuals of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds who are drawn to their fun-loving and supportive spirit.
The philosophy of EVRC, driven by founder Ryan, is one of radical inclusivity and acceptance. This is a crew where there are no expectations and no judgment—only a shared love for running and a desire to have a great time. They proudly emphasize that it is not about being the fastest. It is about embracing the joy of running together as a community. By creating a safe and welcoming space for all participants, they have successfully cultivated an environment where the connections made are just as important as the miles covered.
East Van Run Crew has a strong commitment to giving back to the city they call home. Beyond their regular runs, they are known for organizing and participating in various "unsanctioned" running events throughout the year. The primary aim of these grassroots races is to support local charities. This enables the crew to combine their passion for running with a commitment to making a positive impact. This spirit of mutuality is a defining characteristic and a testament to their community-first approach.
The culture of East Van Run Crew is built around their exciting and unique weekly event. Every Monday at 6:30 p.m., the crew congregates for their group run, but with a twist. Their meeting point is a different brewery in Vancouver each week. This decentralized, nomadic approach adds an element of adventure to every run. It allows members to explore different parts of the city and its thriving craft beer scene. The specific location is announced on their Instagram account ahead of time, building anticipation for the new adventure.
Driven by a mission to make running joyful and inclusive, East Van Run Crew welcomes everyone, regardless of experience. Their main message is that the crew is open to all who wish to discover the fun of running together. Join any Monday night run by checking their social media for the next brewery meeting point.
EVRC is a standout crew, but they are part of a thriving and diverse running community in Vancouver. The city boasts a variety of other groups, each with its own unique charm. This includes the delightfully-named Ice Cream & Donut Run Club, which combines running with indulgent treats, and the community-focused Fraser Street Run Club. Other groups like RUNDISTRIKT host popular #RUN2BEERE events. These showcase the city's shared love for combining running with social rewards.
Vancouver's stunning natural beauty is captivating. Located in British Columbia, Canada, this coastal metropolis is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Here, majestic mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. This, combined with a city-wide passion for an active and outdoor lifestyle, makes Vancouver a true runner's paradise. There are endless paths and trails to explore throughout the year.
Runners in Vancouver are spoiled for choice with a multitude of world-class running routes. The most iconic is the Stanley Park Seawall, a nearly 9-kilometer paved loop. It offers stunning, uninterrupted views of the city skyline, the mountains, and the ocean. For a true escape into nature, the lush trails of Pacific Spirit Regional Park provide a vast network of paths through a temperate rainforest. For a more challenging experience, the rugged terrain and suspension bridge of Lynn Canyon Park on the North Shore offer a thrilling adventure.
Vancouver's running calendar is packed with exhilarating events that are a major focus for the local community. The crown jewel is the BMO Vancouver Marathon, known for its world-class organization and stunning course. It showcases the city's diverse neighborhoods and captivating waterfront views. The Vancouver Half Marathon is another major draw for avid runners. For those seeking a more whimsical experience, the Moustache Miler is a unique and beloved charity race. It combines the joy of running with a fun, philanthropic spirit.
