ABOUT US
More Than a Running Club
For more than five decades, Gulf Coast Runners has been bringing people together through a shared love of running, fitness, and community. Based in Naples, Florida, GCR welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities—from first-time 5K participants to seasoned marathoners.
Whether you're looking to train for your next race, meet new friends, volunteer in the community, or simply enjoy an active lifestyle, you'll find a place here.
Our Mission
At Gulf Coast Runners, we believe running has the power to change lives. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, our mission is to promote healthy, active lifestyles by bringing people together through races, training runs, social events, and volunteerism while strengthening the Southwest Florida community. Through our Youth Development Fund, community partnerships, and charitable initiatives, we invest in the next generation of runners and leaders—having awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to Collier County students since 1995.
Our History
Since 1974, Gulf Coast Runners has inspired healthy, active lifestyles while bringing the Southwest Florida running community together. What began as a small group of local runners has grown into a thriving nonprofit organization that hosts races, training runs, social events, and volunteer opportunities while investing in future generations through youth scholarships and community outreach.
1978: The Beginning
Forty-seven runners gathered at Lowdermilk Park for GCR's inaugural Holiday Run, launching what would become one of Southwest Florida's premier running organizations.
1979: Giving Back
The club helped raise funds for the Collier County Special Olympics Program, beginning a long tradition of community service.
1980: Championship Success
GCR set relay records at the Miami Runners Foot Works 24-Hour Relay and earned the Florida State Sub-Masters Track & Field Championship trophy.
1995: Investing in Youth
The Youth Development Fund was established to provide scholarships and support the next generation of runners.
Today: Still Going Strong
With more than $1 million awarded in scholarships and thousands of runners brought together through races and events, Gulf Coast Runners continues to build a healthier, stronger community—one mile at a time.
Our Community
At Gulf Coast Runners, you'll find much more than races.
Members enjoy:
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Weekly group runs and training opportunities
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Club races and signature community events
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Social gatherings throughout the year
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Member discounts with local partners
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Volunteer opportunities
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A welcoming community that celebrates runners at every level
Whether you're training for your first finish line or your fiftieth marathon, you'll always have someone to run alongside.
BECOME A MEMBER
Every mile we run helps strengthen our community. Become a member, volunteer at one of our events, participate in a race, or support the Youth Development Fund. Together, we're building a healthier, more connected Southwest Florida—one runner, one race, and one community at a time.
