Three Run Two: Running the Streets of Logan Square

Photos courtesy of Three Run Two

Are you a runner? Do you love the social aspects of running groups? Have you been looking for such a running group here in Logan Square? Well, look no further than Three Run Two—the Logan Square-based neighborhood running group.

Meeting Thursdays at 7:15 pm in front of Dunlays on the Square (@squaredunlays, 3137 W. Logan Blvd.), the group runs a 3.5- or 6-mile route along the historic boulevards. Welcoming runners of all experience levels, the group combines social camaraderie with running and socializing. Most nights you can find the group going out for dinner and a drink after runs.

Three Run Two also meets Tuesday mornings at 5:45 am in front of Dark Matter Coffee on Chicago and Western. Runners choose between a 3- or 5-mile route that takes the group through West Town. Although Tuesdays are a bit more rushed than Thursdays since most members have to work in the morning, there’s still time to chat and grab some coffee.

Founded to Inspire Through Running

Founded this past January by Logan Square residents Nicolas Bernal, Micaela Bernal and Alexander Gonzales, Three Run Two is a manifestation of passion for self improvement, community and cultural awareness through running.

“[Last year] was a great year for me in regard to training and racing. I was on a constant runner’s high and felt the need to share my passion for running with others. In particular, a select group of lifelong friends who did not run much at the time,” says Nicolas Bernal. “My sister, Micaela, took some time off after the 2012 Chicago Marathon due to injury. Toward the end of the year, she was itching to get the ball rolling again. This group was a great re-entry point for her.”

The Bernals teamed up with Gonzalez, who has always been active and interested in running with a group. “Our ultimate idea was to make running accessible to runners of all experience levels,” says Bernal.

Perfect for First-Time Runners, Accomplished Ultramarathoners

Three Run Two’s membership ranges from first-time runners to accomplished ultramarathoners. The group doesn’t define themselves solely by speed or distance. As a decidedly diverse crew, they celebrate each other’s differences by breaking bread and personal records and striving to be good sports, both on and off the field.

“I started running with [Three Run Two] because I needed a little extra push to keep running in the winter months,” says Crystal Pierce, 29, who’s been running with the group since January. “It is hard to motivate your self to run in ice and snow alone, so the added accountability of running with the team helped to get me out the door. Now I see Three Run Two as part of my extended family. We all have similar goals and know how important running is to one another. We also know how to have a good time!”

As a running community that’s organic, relatable and reflective of Chicago’s urban landscape and the people that inhabit it, the group enjoys discovering Chicago’s hidden gems. Through running, members explore the uncharted areas of the Logan Square neighborhood that is often overlooked.

“I run with Three Run Two because its the easiest way to run without it feeling like a dreaded workout,” says Samantha Deuchler, 31, who’s joined the group in March. “Running with fun people, chatting before, during and after the run makes me feel fun and social. The sense of family the group gives is truly immediate from your first run and is felt every run after.”

Originally started in Humboldt Park, Three Run Two has now set up shop in Logan Square. For updates on when and where they’re running next, visit the group on Facebook, Instagram and on Twitter @3RUN2.