Year and Program of Study: 4th year MedicineWhy do I run (the social media)? After doing ballet for 13 years, I wanted to try running. Asides from making my closest friends through the UTRC, I have also combined my interests in photography with graphic design. I take pride in making our Instagram and Facebook look #iconic. We are known for our signature black and white look and unique photos; I can’t wait to see what this year holds. My ideal run: Trinity Bellwoods on a sunny fall day.

Who, dead or alive, would you like to have a coffee with? Audrey Hepburn because she’s such a classy and timeless icon.

Would you rather be allergic to chocolate or fries? Chocolate. I love potatoes too much and couldn’t imagine a life without them.

Year and Program of Study: 4th year Health and Disease and BioethicsWhy I run/lead with UTRC: Running gives me strength and confidence that I can do the hard things that life throws my way! I’ve gained so much positivity from the sport, whether it’s from the accomplishments I’ve achieved or the incredible community of runners that I’ve met along the way. I truly can’t imagine who I’d be without running!

My ideal run: would be along the boardwalk of the Portugal coastline. It would be on a beautifully sunny and early morning. When I’m done, I would jump in the ocean and have a scrumptious breakfast after!

My favourite neighbourhood in Toronto is the Beaches. It is a quaint little escape from the concrete jungle of downtown Toronto. As a lover of running up hills, I appreciate the ones I’ve found in this area.

Year and Program of Study: 4th year KinesiologyWhy do I run/lead? I joined the UTRC in 1st year to meet new people and get active during the summer! I always had an interest in running during high school so I thought this club would be a good way for me to step more out of my comfort zone and run with others. I have met so many amazing people through the UTRC and I am excited to continue meeting more and being part of their running journeys. My ideal run: filled with good music and good people. There would be a slight breeze with not too much sun and I would run to the Evergreen Brickworks or the Waterfront. These locations both have beautiful trails that allow you to see a wide variety of things! Finally, I would end with a nice cup of iced water.

Why do I run/lead? Running is something I genuinely enjoy – it’s so much fun, and it helps me stay active and relaxed. UTRC has brought me amazing memories and introduced me to wonderful people. That’s why I want to be a run leader: to help others find the same joy and connections I’ve experienced.

My perfect run would be in the morning, with the sun shining just right, the city streets are mostly quiet, with few people around. I’d be listening to my favourite music and catching every green light as I go. The run would end at a small café, where I could unwind and enjoy a peaceful moment.

If I could have any job, I’d love to own a small café or bakery. I’m really passionate about baking, and running my own business would be the perfect way to combine my creativity with something fulfilling.

Year and Program of Study: Chemical Engineering Co-opWhy I run/lead with UTRC: I enjoy running because it is a wonderful way to stay active, and explore new trails and neighbourhoods. Being a run leader also allows me to foster a strong, amazing community. I find that running helps me keep more focused throughout the day, and brings me a sense of peace. I’m excited to lead with UTRC to share this sport with others!

My perfect run occurs in the morning, when it is slightly cool outside, along the water or on paths in the forest. To top it off, I’ll end the run with a coffee and a pastry.

In order to tackle the zombie apocalypse, my team would have Sha’Carri Richardson to help us sprint from the zombies, Jake Shimabukuro to provide us with joy through music in a trying time, and Chris Hadfield to take us to space if the apocalypse gets too out of hand.

Year and Program of Study: 4th year civil engineering

Why I run/lead with UTRC: I lead with UTRC because I enjoy meeting all the great people that come out to these runs. It’s also really cool to be able to see people grow in their fitness and running confidence.

My ideal run: would have light rain, and take place on an early morning along empty streets. If I were going to sail around the world, I would build a 1st century viking longship using timber cut with the sawmill I bought this summer! My friends and I would spend the winter felling trees and building our ship and by spring we’d be exploring the new world! To keep it real though, I know nothing about boats … but I do know carpentry!

Year and Program of Study: 1st year Masters in Laboratory Medicine and PathobiologyWhy I run/lead with UTRC: I love to run and enjoy connecting with others through sport. As a long-time run leader throughout my undergrad at UofT, the UTRC family has become an integral part of my community in Toronto. I look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting our new members this year!My ideal run: would be on an early morning, with weather around 20°C and sunny, running a long trail where I can see trees and water.

My go-to karaoke song is Benny and The Jets by Elton John. I love that song because you can’t help dancing to it. I’ve been singing all my life. It’s a wonderful way to destress and connect with people.

Year and Program of Study: 2nd year Computer Science

Why I run/lead with UTRC:  Running has been a major part of my life for the past two years. I run to clear my mind, challenge my body, and strengthen my cardiovascular health. Leading the run club allows me to explore the city, connect with new friends, and build a supportive community that welcomes runners at any stage of their running journey.

My ideal run: would be along the Waterfront on an early summer morning.

What is your favourite muscle group to train? I’ve been focused on training different pull-up variations for my back muscles. It allows me to build functional strength and endurance for sports like rock climbing and swimming.