In addition, the SBC sponsors the Capital City Century, offering 10-, 25-, 40-, 62-, and 100-mile recreational rides to more than 600 Illinois cyclists on Sept. 13. The Springfield Road Runners Club, the area’s collection of joggers and runners, has grown to more than 1,300 members since it formed in 1980. In the summer, members meet for informal group runs in Washington Park during the week and take off from various Springfield spots like downtown’s Café Moxo on weekends.

“A major benefit of club membership is getting to know other runners so you can customize your training runs, times and locations,” says club president Barb Bonansinga.

Katie McAfee, a veteran member, leads group speed-work training every Wednesday through the fall. Runners of all pace groups participate; the group runs at Washington Park until the Sacred Heart Griffin track becomes available.

The SRRC offers Abe’s Army for new walkers and runners. The 12-week program divides participants into groups based on their fitness levels and prepares them for Abe’s Amble — a 10K road race held on the last day of the Illinois State Fair. Abe’s Army trains on Monday evenings from June through August.

Club members run in a variety of summer races throughout the central Illinois area, beginning with the Passavant-Powerade 5K and 10K on May 30 in Jacksonville. The 17th annual 5K (3.1 miles) and 10K (6.2 miles) begin at Passavant Area Hospital and direct runners through residential areas on the city’s west side. The SRRC hosts the Women’s Distance Festival on July 11 at Washington Park. The 2-mile race celebrates women’s rights and commemorates the 1979 race held in response to the lack of women’s Olympic distance races. Participants can also visit the health fair, with screenings and information for women and children. Event proceeds go to Girls on the Run, a nonprofit organization that promotes fitness for preteen girls.

In addition to Abe’s Amble, this year held on Aug. 23, the SRRC hosts the Carlberg Design Parade Run during the Illinois State Fair. The 2-mile race around the fairgrounds kicks off at 5:30 p.m. August 13. For more information on the Springfield Bicycle Club and the Springfield Road Runners Club, visit www.spfldcycling.org and www.srrc.net.

Contact Amanda Robert at [email protected].