Manchester Running Club: Finding Community in Connecticut Running

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we head to Manchester, Connecticut, to sit down with David Fusfeld, President of the Manchester Running Club.David shares his own “adult onset runner” story, starting in his 30s, getting hooked on the marathon, qualifying for Boston, completing 23 marathons, and recently earning his Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star medal. From there, we dive into the history and growth of Manchester Running Club, which started in 2009 and has become one of Connecticut’s most active and visible running communities. The conversation explores how MRC balances competitive racing with a welcoming social culture, why group runs often work best when they mix workouts, breweries, long runs, and coffee, and what makes Manchester such a strong running town. David also highlights the club’s signature events, including the Spring Street Mile & 5K and the MRC Track & Field Series, a summer event that brings hundreds of kids and adults to the track each week and helps introduce young athletes to the sport. We also talk about the broader Connecticut running scene, the growth of clubs across the state, the iconic Manchester Road Race on Thanksgiving, and why David believes Connecticut is “punching above its weight” as a running community.Whether you’re a competitive runner, a social runner, a parent looking to get your kids involved, or someone nervous about joining a club for the first time, this episode is a great reminder that running is better when you find your people.Learn more:Manchester Running Club: manchesterrunningclub.comMRC Track & Field Series: mrctf.orgInstagram: @manchesterrunningclubPhotography: @meteredexposureThis podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.