Provo's Road Runners club for youth provides insights into Utah running culture

Utah Valley is a hotspot for runners in America, and running has a deep influence on the area's culture.

John Hedengren, a BYU professor and avid runner, believes people in Provo and Utah Valley in general have a unique perspective when it comes to running.

"The culture here in Utah really feeds that running scene," he said. "People don't shy away from the challenge."

That's why Hedengren and his family started "Road Runners," a club for kids in the neighborhood to get together and run, developing a network of friends while strengthening their bodies and spirits.

"We started when my daughter Jane came into seventh grade," he said. "She didn't have anybody to run with and so I thought, you know, this is a great thing."

Hedengren remarked on the tremendous impact it had on the youth, especially during the troubling time of COVID and lockdowns.

"There's one athlete that, during COVID, came up to me and said, 'I just want to let you know, Road Runners literally saved my life,'" Hedengren said solemnly.

Road Runners is also a powerful tool for young runners looking to sharpen their game.

"My mile time is 4:50, it's improved like by 26 seconds this season," said Road Runners participant Angie Alser.

"I love (it) so much because I used to run with my family, and when I went to Road Runners, I found people that were my speed. I wasn't running by myself anymore," she said.

Clubs like Road Runners demonstrate that running can bring the people of Provo together and help them live better lives.