Why run or walk with the Baltimore Frontrunners? We provide a great opportunity to get regular exercise with other members of the LGBTQ community. Many members credit the club with helping them achieve pace and distance goals they did not think possible when they first started. In addition to our weekly runs, we offer monthly social activities, providing a great way to build friendships and "find your community" here in Baltimore.
I'm interested in checking out the Baltimore Frontrunners, do I have to become a member first? No, you don’t need to be a member to come check out the club. New runners are welcome to attend any of our weekly runs before deciding to join. Please note, dues are not required to attend weekly runs.
Are visitors welcome? Yes, we'd love to show you around Charm City!
Can I join even if I don't identify as LGBT? Yes, absolutely. Baltimore Frontrunners is open to all LGBT and LGBT-friendly athletes.
Do you meet rain or shine? The club usually meets regardless of weather conditions, but please take precautions if you decide to attend when there is surface ice, snow, freezing cold, heavy rain, and extreme heat conditions. Check Facebook for last minute updates.
What can I expect on my first run or walk with the club? If it’s your first time, please let one of your fellow runners or walkers know. The run coordinator or another club officer will welcome you to the club and provide you with basic route information. We may be able to match you with someone who runs or walks at your pace. We mingle and stretch prior to announcements, which begin at the time of the run (9am or 6:30pm). After announcements we will do introductions so you can meet others in the club. Join us afterward for a bite to eat and friendly conversation!
Am I fast enough to run with the club? Yes, you are. There are no pace or experience requirements. Our club has a wide variety of runners and walkers at all ability levels. If you are new to the club, we recommend attending the Saturday morning run/walk where you can choose your own distance and pace. Our Saturday morning route is easy to follow as it's along the waterfront. You can turn back at any time.
Are the routes easy to follow? Our Monday and Wednesday routes are a bit complex. We recommend reviewing the route maps prior to joining the run for the first time. Our Saturday morning route is easy to follow as it's along the waterfront.
Is parking available? Parking is easiest for our Saturday runs, as surface parking lot is available at Panera Bread. For our Monday and Wednesday runs, you will need to use street parking. Typically, there are adequate spaces available and in most areas the meters are not enforced after 6pm.
Is there a bag check? We don't offer a bag check, however members are always willing to put your items in their nearby cars for the duration of the run.
Where does the name "Front Runners" come from? Front Runners is named after Patricia Nell Warren’s 1974 novel, “The Front Runner”. The novel is a gay love story between a collegiate running coach and his star athlete.
How much does it cost to join and how do I pay? Dues are just $25 per year. This is used to fund our activities throughout the year (e.g. dues to International Front Runners, website fees, food and supplies for our socials, etc.) The best way to pay is online via PayPal.
If you have questions or concerns about joining an event, feel free to email us at [email protected].
