612RUN: Fast Miles and Good Vibes from St. Gallen to Zurich
The story of 612RUN began not on a track, but in a club in St. Gallen, Switzerland. In the fall of 2015, friends and former football players Joel Horlacher and Kevin Hofer made an important decision over a few too many beers. They both loved running and wanted to train together for races, but they found the formal structure of a traditional running club to be unappealing. That night, they envisioned something new: a crew that would energize the blend of competition and community, of sweat and celebration. This marked the beginning of a crew defined by fast miles and the friendships forged after the run.
At its core, 612RUN embodies the vision of its founders. Joel and Kevin sought to create more than just a group for logging miles; they aimed for a true crew. Their philosophy is refreshingly straightforward: Run to explore and experience the city, train for both asphalt and trails, and connect to share the passion. It’s not just about showing up to run; it’s about pushing personal limits and running fast. Social connections are as vital as physical effort, leading to their golden rule: you must earn your post-run beer. This work hard, play hard mentality ensures that while the runs are demanding, the atmosphere is always uplifting and filled with camaraderie.
What started as an idea between two friends has evolved into a close-knit group that runs, races, and celebrates together. The crew’s identity is deeply linked to its two home cities, having been born in St. Gallen and raised in Zurich. This dual-city heritage provides a broad playground and a vibrant presence in the Swiss running scene. They operate as a tight family, sharing experiences that revolve around training hard and socializing afterward.
The culture of 612RUN is one of balance. They take their training seriously, tackling both urban asphalt and challenging mountain trails to prepare for races. Simultaneously, they are equally committed to having a good time. A key tradition is the post-run gathering; no run concludes without the crew sitting together for a drink or coffee. This ritual is central to their identity, solidifying the bonds of friendship that drive their competitive spirit. They celebrate just as passionately as they strive for fast times.
612RUN warmly invites any runner who shares their ethos. If you focus on running fast, pushing your limits, and believe that enjoying time with the crew afterward is an essential part of the experience, you are welcome to join them. It’s all about the run and the crew.
Zurich is a global financial and banking hub, but it also boasts a strong appreciation for nature and an active lifestyle. Nestled by Lake Zurich and the Limmat River, with the Uetliberg mountain nearby, the city provides a stunning and diverse environment for runners. Its running culture is vibrant and well-established, supported by numerous events and clubs that engage a large athletic community.
Runners in Zurich can enjoy a variety of routes, ranging from flat lakeside paths to challenging mountain trails. A classic city run typically follows the shores of Lake Zurich or the banks of the Limmat River. For hill training and spectacular views, the trails of Uetliberg Mountain are a premier destination, offering a genuine trail running experience just a short train ride from the city center.
Zurich is a hub for the Swiss running crew movement. In addition to 612RUN, the city is home to other communities, such as the On-Running Club and various informal social running groups.
The city is renowned for its lively running scene, hosting several major events throughout the year. The Zurich Marathon, held each spring, is a highlight of the city’s sports calendar and attracts a large international field to compete on its scenic urban course. In December, the city comes alive with the Zürcher Silvesterlauf, a festive series of races that wind through Zurich’s historic old town. This popular end-of-year event attracts thousands of runners, creating a vibrant atmosphere as participants and spectators come together to celebrate.
