Over the last couple of weeks, I have been attending an event that is held every Monday evening at 6pm in Encinitas. It is the Movin Shoes evening run, and I found them through my association with the San Diego Tri Club. It is an organized run that hosts all levels of runners with 3 specific routes: a 3, a 4, and 6 mile run which is at your own pace followed by refreshments and a raffle drawing from the evenings sponsor.

My first time joining the group was a bit intimidating since I noticed so many serious runners there. I’m talking about some of the local high school cross country teams, local running clubs, and the defending 2-time national cross country champions, CSU San Marcos. To my delight, everyone was super cool and welcoming. I had the pleasure of meeting a lot of really nice people of all ages and had some great conversation.

When the clock struck 6, we were off on our run. The cross country teams were incredibly fast. Since there was no way that I could keep up with them, I settled into my own pace and enjoyed chatting with some of the folks running alongside of me. The route took us from the store at the lumberyard out to Cardiff by the Sea and back. Of course, the entire way we enjoyed panoramic ocean views and breezes.

At the end of our run, we were met with raffle tickets and water. I was surprised to see how many cool items were given away. Shoes, socks, hats, hydration belts, and running apparel were all up for grabs. I even got a hat from Asics that I used for the run! Most importantly, I was impressed by how much Movin Shoes supports the local youth athletics in the community.

If you are looking for something fun to do on Monday nights, I highly recommend meeting up with me at the run. It is a great way to get out and exercise as well as meet some great people. In fact, tonight is the beginning of a 2 week “Nike Summer Nights” series. Nike will be there giving out prizes and letting runners test out some of their new shoes. Definitely try to make it out for this one. For directions to Movin Shoes, check out the map here.

I hope to see you all there!!