Run Brave. Live Free.
A youth distance running program where every individual—every background, every ability—embraces courage, gets stronger, and grows through running.
What is Running Brave?
Running Brave Distance Project is a Spokane-based youth distance running program for ages 8–14.
We use distance running to teach life skills that extend far beyond the course setting meaningful goals,
showing up with consistency, navigating adversity, and growing through the process.
This is not just a running club. It's a place where young people learn to face challenge, build confidence, and develop through effort over time.
When we are a team, we are equal.
Running Brave brings together youth from every walk of life.
Some athletes join for fitness.
Some for fun.
Some to pursue competitive excellence.
But once training begins, every individual stands on equal
ground—united by effort, courage, and the desire to grow.
Belonging isn’t earned by talent or circumstance.
It’s created the moment an individual shows up
and chooses to take the next step.
Our Three Pillars
Courage
We coach athletes to embrace challenge
rather than shy away from it.
Bravery isn’t the absence of fear
it’s choosing to walk through it.
Community
Running Brave is built on connection.
Youth learn to support one another, lead by
example, and create an environment where
everyone feels seen and valued.
Potential
All athletes arrive at different starting points.
Our mission is to help each individual
become the strongest version of themselves
physically, mentally, and emotionally.
beginner runners
multi-sport youth wanting to build endurance
young emerging elite runners
families seeking structure, mentorship, and values
individuals from underserved communities
volunteers and mentor-leaders
Who We Serve
If an individual can show up consistently with effort
and a willingness to grow, they belong here.
How our program works
Summer Development Program
Open to athletes ages 8–14
Tuesday · Wednesday · Thursday
8:30 – 10:00am June 30 – August 6, 2026
18 sessions
Locations: Upper Manito · Mirabeau Point
· Waikiki Springs · Saltese Flats
Our summer program focuses on growth, fundamentals, and enjoyment
• three structured practices each week
• emphasis on mechanics, injury prevention, mobility, and strength
• a welcoming environment for beginners, novice, and elite-level athletes
• a place to build confidence, consistency, and positive routine
Season fee: $200 Assistance available for those in need.
Competitive Team
For athletes ready for a deeper level of commitment. Selection is based on effort, attendance, ability, and attitude.
The season includes:
late-summer launch
alignment with Spokane school cross country
post-season training
USATF Junior Olympic pathway:
Association Championships
Region 13 Championships
National Championships
Competitive athletes train with higher expectations, a strong team identity, dedicated uniform kits, and travel opportunities.
Head coach is a USATF Level 1 Certified Coach with NCAA Division I experience
Head coach has completed SafeSport training and background verification
Practices begin with mobility, strength, and injury-prevention work
Athletes train in age-appropriate groups following USATF age divisions
Training load and intensity are adjusted to support long-term athletic development
Safety & Coaching
Your athlete’s safety and experience come first.
Golden Ticket Scholarships
Running Brave awards 10 Golden Tickets each season to standout youth we observe supporting, excelling, or demonstrating exceptional commitment and talent at local middle school and elementary cross country meets.
Golden Tickets include:
program fees
training shoes
racing shoes
full program access
Our coaching staff is committed to identifying and developing local talent at every level. Whether an athlete is just finding their stride or showing signs of something exceptional, Running Brave exists to meet them where they are and push them toward the highest version of themselves.
become the premier youth distance program in the Northwest
compete regionally and nationally
expand mentorship, scholarships, and community support
build a place where youth from all backgrounds unite around courage and growth
Our Vision
Use distance running to build stronger youth, stronger families, and a stronger Spokane.
Over time, we aim to:
One step, one season,
one athlete at a time.
Get Involved
Register an athlete
Volunteer as a mentor or running leader
Donate or sponsor a Golden Ticket