WELCOME TO RUNNERS OF THE SIX
We're a resource for runners, by runners. Our team is a reflection of the diverse runners who make up the
Greater Toronto Area Running Community!
Connecting the boroughs
one stride at a time.
![Meet Nikki Silva! Over the years Nikki’s “why”, as it pertains to running, has “transformed into claiming space, breaking barriers, and trying new things”. Initially, Nikki started running around 18 to get exercise. Despite some naysayers, Nikki enjoyed the sport. But after participating in a 5km race that left her feeling intimidated and left behind - quite literally as “people were basically trampling [her] to get by” - Nikki decided to avoid races altogether.
Time passed and Nikki built her family. She married and had two children. It was during this time that Nikki felt so out of the running culture loop. “I saw [running crews] on social media and considered showing up but kept thinking about that first run experience and did not feel like I would be welcome. I was scared, intimidated, and lost in a haze of caring for two children under two.”
After returning to work as a teacher and reengaging with running, a colleague suggested Nikki participate in the Sporting Life 10km with some students. Despite being nervous, Nikki felt motivated. She decided to take time to train and - as luck would have it - had an incredible experience at the 2017 Mother’s Day edition of the race. The spark was reignited! And truly, Nikki hasn’t looked back!
Nikki’s running life is now packed with inspiration and inclusion - the very opposite of her initial experience. Nikki co-captains runs with “A Woman’s Run” and supports others who run to claim space and see themselves represented in the sport. In addition to continuing her work with “A Woman’s Run”, Nikki’s next goal is to create a community run at the school where she teaches, including all genders and running levels. With plans to focus on youth issues like mental health and healthy choices, there is no doubt that Nikki is an incredible inspiration to many around her.
📸 by @dre.run](https://runnersofthesix.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png)
The Journal
Finding Meaning in Running 2.23 Miles: A Tribute to Ahmaud Arbery
A long time ago, I convinced a friend of mine that we were going to “get fit” and maybe make a school team (we didn’t). At 5AM before the world […]
Respectful Running: “I am blind, please go around me”
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Deena Kastor: Let Your Mind Run
In her book, Deena Kastor weaves together stories of her training and races with lessons on how she let go of negativity and learned to approach her running with positivity and gratitude. How can this mindset help you?
Running Rituals: Results and Re-living Race Day
Race Day. For many, it feels like a lifetime ago. The initial quiet and darkness of the morning that fills the air. The excitement that builds and radiates through each […]
The High Five: Ultrarunning Films
A new segment on our journal, join us for “The High Five” as we share a snapshot from a variety of running topics. From fuel favourites to destination races, running […]
How Yoga Can Complement Your Running Routine
When we think of running, we don’t typically make an association to practicing yoga. Lacing up for a speed workout may seem inherently different to unrolling your yoga mat and […]
BLM and Running: The Marathon Continues
In the year 2020, two main evolutions and developments to both recreational and competitive running occurred. Covid-19 put a wrench in traditional 10,000+ person marathons leading race directors and individuals […]
Running with Grief
I lace up my shoes and head out. It’s not like I haven’t run before. I’ve run so many times over the past years. It’s just that this time feels […]
Going the Distance
Am I a ‘runner’ yet? How many kilometres do I have to log? How many days per week do I have to run? What combination of answers to these questions […]
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Greater Toronto Area Running Community!
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High Park
High Park is way more than selfie crowds and cherry blossoms. With over 400 acres of mostly natural park space, High Park is a beloved Toronto landmark that was first […]
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