More Than Miles: How Antwerp Running Crew Finishes as Friends
Crew at a Glance Founded in August 2015 in the vibrant port city of Antwerp, Belgium, the Antwerp Running Crew is a community based on a refreshingly simple and inclusive philosophy. They welcome all runners, from beginners to advanced athletes, providing motivated pacers to ensure no one is left behind. Guided by the principle that every run should start with a group and end with a group of friends, they offer a perfect blend of fitness, fun, and camaraderie.
Introduction
In late summer 2015, Patrice and Henrique saw an opportunity to bring a new kind of energy to the running scene in Antwerp. They wanted to create more than just a club for training; they envisioned a community where running could be a vehicle for friendship and discovery. In August of that year, they founded the Antwerp Running Crew, a group that has since grown into a cornerstone of the city's athletic and social fabric, proving that a shared run is one of the best ways to connect.
Philosophy & Founders
The entire philosophy of the Antwerp Running Crew is perfectly captured in their motto: "We go fast, we go slow. We get drunk, we get fit. We set records, or just show up. But on every run, we start as a group of people and finish as a group of friends." This guiding principle, established by founders Patrice and Henrique, has fostered a uniquely welcoming and pressure-free environment. It acknowledges that runners have different goals and moods, making space for all of them—whether someone is pursuing a personal best or simply wants to show up for social connection.
Community & Collaboration
By supporting all levels of runners, the Antwerp Running Crew has built a strong, diverse, and loyal community. Their use of dedicated pacers for different speeds ensures that both new and experienced runners can find their place and feel supported. This structure naturally fosters mentorship and encouragement, breaking down barriers that can sometimes exist in more competitive environments. The result is a tight-knit group where making new friends is just as important as the run itself.
Culture & Activities
The crew’s activities center around structured yet social group runs designed to be accessible to everyone. They cater to beginners, intermediate, and advanced runners within a single session, with pacers leading each group. This setup allows everyone to get the workout they desire while still being part of a larger collective. A key aspect of their culture is also urban exploration; the routes are designed to showcase new and interesting parts of Antwerp, making every run a chance to see the city from a different perspective.
Invitation
Antwerp Running Crew maintains an open invitation to all who wish to join. Their runs are a great way to meet new people, explore the city, and enjoy running even more. For the most up-to-date information on their weekly meeting times and locations, runners are encouraged to connect with them via their official Instagram page.
About the City
Antwerp, Belgium's second-largest city, is a bustling hub of global trade, fashion, and history. As I write this from Berlin on a Friday afternoon, I'm reminded of how Europe's great cities each have their distinct energy. Antwerp's identity is shaped by its massive international port, its world-renowned diamond district, and its legacy as a center for avant-garde fashion. This dynamic and stylish backdrop provides a fantastic and ever-changing environment for a run.
Routes & Landmarks
The crew’s runs through Antwerp showcase the city's diverse architecture and landscapes. A favorite route often follows the banks of the River Scheldt, offering wide-open views and a flat, fast surface. Runs frequently wind through the historic city center, passing by the magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady, and explore newer developments like the area around the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS). By weaving through different neighborhoods, from the trendy Zuid to the historic heart, they ensure their members experience the full breadth of the city.
Local Races
The city of Antwerp hosts several major running events, but none is more iconic than the Antwerp 10 Miles & Marathon. This massive event, typically held in the spring, brings the entire city to a standstill as tens of thousands of participants take to the streets. It includes a full marathon, a half marathon, and the legendary 10-mile race, which is the main event and a celebrated fixture in Belgian running culture. The atmosphere is famously electric, with supporters lining the course to cheer on the runners.
