Passionate about the trails in the Saint John area? Got some running shoes sitting in a box under your bed that you’re itching to dust off? Consider joining the Saint John Trail Running group!  

Saint John Trail Running is a local group of runners who meet up weekly to get some exercise and explore the natural beauty of Saint John trails, including some in the greater Saint John area. The group meets up on Wednesday evenings, and there’s also a women’s only run on Monday evenings. 6:30 p.m. is the time to show up, ready to rock. The group frequents Rockwood Park, Irving Nature Park, Wells Trails, and many others! 

Along with the weekly runs, Saint John Trail Running also leads an intro group for those looking to build fitness and introduce themselves to the sport, which runs a series of local trail races. 

The Baron was fortunate enough to sit down with Mark McColgan, the lead guide for the Wednesday group run, to discuss how interested folks can get involved and SJTR’s community impact. 

How long have you been involved with Saint John Trail Running? What is/are your role(s) in the group?

Saint John Trail Running was launched in 2020, as a way to cope with the pandemic. I took over the “River and Trail Runners” from Sean Creary, changed the name to Saint John Trail Running, and am the lead guide for the co-ed group. I am also the race director for five SJTR races.   

Our women’s only group is led by Sarah Lamos. 

How long have you been trail running? Did you start before joining SJTR?

I was pretty heavy into the ultra running scene, as a runner, from 2016 to 2021. I successfully completed several ultra’s from 50km to 110km. Things got pretty busy with SJTR, so I took a few years off to deal with injury and help grow SJTR to what it is today. I’m now slowly getting back into running ultra’s for myself again. 

For folks who may be unfamiliar, how does trail running differ from road running? Is there any specific gear you would recommend folks acquire before venturing out onto the trails?

Trail running requires runners to navigate roots, rocks, climbing, descending, and a wide variety of terrain under foot. For that reason, it’s recommended to use a good pair of trail running shoes. You can get by with road shoes, especially on easier terrain, but if you get into it, you’re going to want some good shoes. From there, you can go down a huge rabbit hole of gear. To start, you don’t need anything different than road running.  

Are beginners welcome to the SJTR runs?  

Absolutely! We have a “Nobody Left Behind” policy. All of our group runs have a lead guide and a caboose, which stays at the back to make sure nobody gets lost. That said, we offer an intro group in the spring, which is the best way to get into it! 

How does one join in on the runs? Is there registration required? 

No registration required for our weekly group runs, and they are completely free. You simply show up on Monday (women’s only) or Wednesday (co-ed) at 6:30 p.m., ready to run. We post all our group runs on Facebook, two days before the event. We also post a reminder to Facebook and Instagram [links: main group | women’s group] on the day of the run. You can find our events on our website, which do require registration or tickets. 

What is the best way for prospective members to keep up with SJTR?

Facebook is the best place to start. We also have an Instagram for both SJTR and SJTR Women. We also have a website where you can find more information on all of our events. 

Would you be able to give us a quick overview of the events in the SJ Trail Series?

The SJ Trail Race Series is a first for Atlantic Canada Trail Running. This series of trail running events includes all five of our races that are held from May to November. No sign up required!  You are automatically added to the race series as soon as you complete a SJTR race. At the end of the season we have an awards ceremony to celebrate those who have shown ultimate consistency over the year. 

I understand SJTR has an intro group that runs every spring to get beginners used to the sport and help improve their fitness. Who would this program be best suited for and how can interested folks get more information/sign up? 

Yes, the intro program is so inspiring. It really is for anyone who loves the outdoors. We do start very slow, and increase the distance weekly. You’re going to set yourself up for success if you prepare with some hikes/road runs. During the program, we always recommend that you practice outside of the guided runs. New this year, we are offering an option to add a training plan to your registration!  

Is there anything else you’d like folks to know about SJTR? 

As a community, we believe that giving back is important. Since 2020, we have been extremely fortunate to donate over $30,000 to local charities on behalf of the community.   

Bonus round! What is your favourite trail in the Saint John area? 

Honestly, it depends on the day. What many people don’t know is that we have plenty of amazing options and we are here to show them to you!

 

The Baron would like to extend many thanks to Mark McColgan for taking the time to respond to our questions. If you are interested in learning more about Saint John Trail Running, you can do so on their FaceBook, website, and Instagram (main group | women’s only).