11/09/2025
Each year, I am at a loss for how to describe Band of Runners trail camp. One part clinic, one part outdoor adventure camp and full time family reunion barely begins to do it justice.
I participated in camp for the first time as a camper in 2022. At the time, I wasn’t convinced I even needed to be there. I was a veteran trail runner and race director. How wrong I was. I learned so much that I have been able to apply to my events and running. But the people are what really make this special.
For the last 3 years, I have been entrusted with helping lead A Group. These are the folks who are beginning trail runners. They may never have run on a trail. These are veterans, spouses, children and siblings of other veterans. They are using the trails to develop healthy life habits or perhaps connect to their loved one. Many experienced substantial trauma and are looking for ways to navigate those waters.
This year, the camp moved from West Texas into downtown Austin. This created a different vibe on the trails but didn’t diminish the experience at all.
I think I walk away from my campers learning as much from them as they do from me. If you want heroes, they are right here. They are your neighbors who stepped up when they were needed and are now learning to navigate life, many after substantial changes. I look forward to being part of this organization for years to come.
https://www.bandofrunners.org/
